title: Re-building sets - paid services?

text:
# Question
Title: Re-building sets - paid services?
My son has A LOT of LEGO sets, which have sadly broken down into many, many millions of pieces. Does anyone know of any paid services that might help re-build his sets.

I know this sounds like it goes against the principles of LEGO, but really it's just too daunting, and he's lost interest because of it.

# Answer
> 4 votes
With “services”, do you mean someone who would come out to your house and rebuild the sets for you? As intriguing as that sounds, I do not believe something like that exists. Your best bet is to grab an instruction manual and start rebuilding from the pieces. Once you have a few sets built this way, it’ll become easier to rebuild the remaining sets. For sets that you know he has but you cannot find a manual, go to lego.com to download the instructions. Then, once it’s down to a few unknown sets, make pictures of the unusual pieces and post them here - we can help you identify the set(s).

# Answer
> 2 votes
You're correct that it's absurd; services to build your Legos for you do not exist to my knowledge.

I would try taking an evening and organizing the parts that you have. Make it a parent-son thing - order a pizza, put on a movie, spread out everything you have on the floor and start separating the parts into groups. My suggestion: First group by general type (plates, bricks, hinges, etc), then by color.

Then comes the fun part: rebuilding. If you remember any of the sets that you have, you can download building instructions from the Lego website here. Once you're done separating by color/type it should be trivial to find the parts you need for any particular set.

Or just eschew this entire process altogether and encourage him to build something entirely from his imagination. Either way, your encouragement and/or involvement is a good thing.

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Tags: piece-information, instructions, disassembly, organisation, glue
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# Question
Title: LEGO color discrepancies and tint variations
While building my copy of set 21310 - Old Fishing Store, I noticed that there are several shades of Sand Green amongst the many tiles of this set. The picture below shows just the 1x4 tiles included in bag 7.

As you can see, the tiles in the rightmost column are uniform in color, but the tiles in the other two columns have different shades. Is this normal or should I call LEGO Customer Service?

# Answer
Unfortunately, this is common to several colors in the LEGO color pallette. According to this article on Eurobricks.com, The LEGO Group (TLG) made a change in the early 2000’s in how they make their colors: they used to have premixed color granules but abandoned those in favor of a system of white granules with colored dyes added in. This new system allows for many more color combinations than previously possible.

There are certain colors which are more susceptible to color variances than others, especially the above mentioned Sand Green, but also Dark Red, Light Bluish Grey and certain Blues.

The good news is that you can use these color variations to create “weathered” looks, like for example in the Old Fishing Store set where the slight variations in Sand Green color give the building a slightly “beaten” look. This Eurobricks thread gives more examples of how you can create weathering effects in your LEGO models.
> 12 votes

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Tags: building, colour, annual-support
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# Question
Title: Are there any difference between the Power Functions 88003 and 99499 L motors?
I am planning to attempt a couple of RC MOCs and was looking up the power functions L motor on BL and found that there are actually 2 types of the L motor, namely the "88003 Power Functions L Motor" and the "99499 Power Functions 9V L Motor". From the somewhat limited information I could google, it seems like the 88003 can run on variable voltage (while I can't find the info on the 9V 99499 motor), it also seem like even their weights are different?

Can someone advice, or point me towards where I can find more information on these?

# Answer
According to bricklink, 88003 is the **set** containing exactly one **part**, namely the 99499 motor. You can buy the motor as a set in LEGO shops or online, it's packaged in a plastic bag, which probably accounts for the 3 gram weight difference between the items.

To my knowledge there are no different versions of the Power Functions L motor.

Here is the list of the sets the motor appears in, note that 88003 is listed as well: https://www.bricklink.com/catalogItemIn.asp?P=99499c01&in=S
> 5 votes

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Tags: power-functions, motor, electronics
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# Question
Title: How can I build a brick-built monorail track?
LEGO haven’t released a new monorail set since the 90s, and the track parts that were made are very expensive and hard to find.

I am interested in building a brick-built alternative. I am particularly inspired by the build shown here.

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# Criteria

### Vehicle

* 6 to 8 studs wide
* running on rubber tyres
* motor-driven

### Track Elements

* straight – unlike the original, a central rack is not necessary for level or smooth gradients.
* curved – can be fixed angle or flexible.
* incline – can be fixed angle or flexible.
* track supports
* track switcher (Optional)

### Parts

* Cannot use existing monorail parts (including the #2681 and #2680 supports).
* Avoid rare, expensive parts, or parts out of production.

# Answer
> 4 votes
There's an article about this topic in the November 2018 issue of HispaBrick magazine.

In addition to a nice interview with the designer (Masao Hidaka), the article shows off some of the techniques used for building the rails:

Technically, the design matches most of your specifications.

It even includes a rather complex motorized switch:

Here's a complete layout:

I'd definitely encourage you to give the full article a look.

# Answer
> 5 votes
Have a look at this youtube channel: MasaoHidaka The Track is made up with standard bricks and he managed to create nice curves and even switches. The switches are quite part intensive though.

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Tags: building, monorail, tracks
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# Question
Title: Where do I find Mindstorms building plans?
I have the Mindstorms NXT 1 kit. It includes a printout of the first robot model building plans. The plans for several other robots (e.g. the scorpion bot) are included in the NXT software. However when I run the software, everything works, but it does not display the building instructions, only the programming instructions. Can I download those plans somewhere?

# Answer
> 3 votes
Official building instructions for NXT 1 models can be downloaded here: http://mindstorms.lego.com/en-us/support/buildinginstructions/8527-/T-56.aspx

# Answer
> 1 votes
You can get almost every building instruction directly from lego \- just type in the set number.

For `8527` (which seems to be your set) there are 7 downloads available (note: I'm not sure if the ones you're looking for are contained, because I don't know the set - but they should be there).

# Answer
> 1 votes
This link seems to have the original building instructions, Alpha Rex is confirmed. http://www.learningfun101.com/2013/02/lego-nxt-instructions/

also try

https://manuall.co.uk/toys/lego/lego-mindstorms/

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Tags: mindstorms
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# Question
Title: What is this short blade with a hole at one end?
What is this element ID?? Can you please help?

# Answer
> 3 votes
That's a 98347, a.k.a Wing 1 x 4 with Pin Hole

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Tags: piece-information, part-identification
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title: Which LEGO set are these parts from?

text:
# Question
Title: Which LEGO set are these parts from?
As we don't know how to make....and which set.

# Answer
Based on the

yellow 30150 Container, Crate with Handholds

and

Trans-Bright Green Bar 8L with Round End (Spring Shooter Dart)

(also R2-D2)

You have:

75092-1: Naboo Starfighter
> 5 votes

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Tags: set-identification, star-wars
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# Question
Title: Has anyone tried putting the Powered Up system in the Christmas train?
Just wondering if anyone has taken the ("Power Functions 2.0") Bluetooth system out of the Cargo Train 60198 or Passenger Train 60197 sets and put it in the Winter Holiday Train set 10254?

# Answer
> 6 votes
Haven't done the 10254 yet with powered up, but have converted several other trains... The train motors have the exact same dimensions and the powered-up smart hub has the same dimensions as the battery box of the power functions system. What's different is that you don't need the space for the IR receiver and that the motor is immediately connected to the hub rather than the receiver.

What will differ is the following steps from the instruction manual:  Those steps make room for the IR-receiver which isn't necessary now..., for the rest you can follow the instructions exactly...

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Tags: trains, powered-up
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title: Technic bits set

text:
# Question
Title: Technic bits set
There are LEGO sets containing just a selection of bricks, such as 10717.

Are there Technic equivalents with cogs and so-on?

If not, what is the best way to acquire a general selection of cogs/axles/etc?

This is for a little boy who is just starting out in Technic, rather than for an enthusiast who is looking for specific parts.

# Answer
Something similar was asked before, but this is a different way to ask it and maybe it is time for some updates.

# LEGO

LEGO has released sets of Technic parts at various points in time. Some sets have been available under LEGO's Education line, but these and a couple of others were released in normal retail channels in 2003:

I don't see any indication that LEGO will still sell you these directly at this point.

For your purposes you probably are better off finding a Technic set that is within your price range and going with that. Having instructions for building one or two things will help spark the imagination. If you can't get more Technic for a birthday or other holiday that's coming up, you can always encourage them to take apart the model from instructions and try something else. Building from a set also means you end up with a nice selection of parts. You're not going to end up with 10x too many of one thing and none of something else that might be more useful. Almost any set is going to have a useful selection of parts for building a variety of things.

# Amazon

Amazon has a number of similar things:

If you want to get more of specific kinds of parts in "bulk" this is will remain a viable way to do that.

# bulk

You can find LEGO by the pound on ebay and at LEGO stores not run by the LEGO group itself. We have a place here that you can go in and there are tables with parts to pick through. They have tons of Technics, bricks, plates, minifig parts, Bionicle bits, etc. You can get a bag of whatever you want for $20-$80 depending on how big the bag is.

Vendors of bulk LEGO tend to set up shop at LEGO shows and conventions. You might discover that there are some unofficial LEGO shops in your area already. Since they don't have the advertising dollars of the official stores they might be in your town and you've missed it.

# bricklink

bricklink is the ultimate ebay replacement and encyclopedic reference for LEGO sets and parts. If you want 200 of a part in one color or 1 each of 200 different parts, this is the place to make it happen.

# Conclusion

I haven't done any bulk purchases on ebay or Amazon, but otherwise I've had good luck with LEGO sets, bulk from stores, and bricklink.
> 3 votes

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Tags: technic
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# Question
Title: What's the Difference Between an Open or Hollow Stud, and Solid Stud Brick?
What's the difference between an open stud brick, and solid stud brick? Should I watch out on which one I use?

# Answer
While the difference is most often cosmetic, an open stud can serve as a connection point for bar elements:

This type of connection is less common than simply using the stud as a stud, but if you are looking to buy elements to build a particular model, you might want to check to see if you need the open stud variety.

In addition to the obvious direct bar connection, open studs can also facilitate connections with the tubes on the underside of 1xn elements. Here's a nice picture showing the bar connection I'm referring to from New Elementary:

This can be used in combination with an open stud to allow elements to connect at a half stud offset. This technique isn't used frequently in sets, but it does sometimes come into play. For example, it is used to fix the top windows in place on the Parisian Restaurant:

The combination of bars on the underside of the 1x6 plates and open studs on the windows allow the windows to be held in place firmly despite the fact that their top stud is offset by half from the regular grid.
> 14 votes

# Answer
jncraton gave lots of great information about connections. Open studs allow for lots of great building techniques. But not all open studs are open simply to facilitate building. Sometimes the studs are molded open for reasons to do with how ABS plastic cools. If the plastic is too thick, it will deform (shrink) as it cools. This is why lots of pieces have open studs, so that they can be formed properly. Not all open studs are open for this reason, but there are lots that are.
> 4 votes

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Tags: piece-information
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# Question
Title: Which LEGO figure is this with white cape and red suit with a lightning bolt?
Could somebody please identify the minifigure in the picture please?

# Answer
> 2 votes
This is Shazam, a superhero from DC,

Paint seems a bit faded in your case, but this is the one.

This is a very rare minifig because it's a Comic-Con 2012 exclusive.

ID sh042 in Bricklink

# Answer
> 7 votes
Looks like the Comic-Con 2012 exclusive Shazam / Captain Marvel: https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?M=sh042#T=I

From the quality of the lighting in the photo it's hard to be definitive but if I had to guess I'd say this isn't genuine Lego but a reproduction figure or knock-off (KO).

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Tags: minifigures, minifigure-identification
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# Question
Title: Building technique for plate at near 45 degree angle
Trying to construct an octagon shaped hallway and trying to attach plates at a near 45 degree angle, but have no idea how to do this. Are there any techniques for attaching plates at a near 45 degree angle that are gapless. Maybe using the technic bent lift arm pieces?

See photo below. Can't get the red brick to line up satisfactory.

# Answer
**ROUND 2.**

***HERE***, experiment with this new *greeblin*' compatible *.LXF* file.

***EDIT:*** *Added X-ray animation to better see the internal contruction.*

Please excuse the non-symmetrical sloppiness of this draft (I got lazy).

Note: The non-connecting hinges, and 1x1 circular pieces are to help cover the visible plate gaps.

We all know *LEGO Digital Draw* gets anal with the exact distances between pieces, so even if these hinges don't connect on this digital plane doesn't mean they won't in a real life physical build.

Oh, and the structural integrity is not based on the connectivity of said hinges.

I stole the idea from *Set #7661 Jedi Starfighter with Hyperdrive Booster Ring*, and added a bit o' me own *greeblin*';)
> 3 votes

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Tags: building
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# Question
Title: Do you know which series or set this sticker is from?
Can you identify the series for this sticker? Or even better, do you know which set it is from?

# Answer
Welcome. This is part 52031pb093 - Wedge 4 x 6 x 2/3 Triple Curved with Gold and Silver Ring Ornament on Dark Green Pattern (Sticker) which comes from set 76006 Iron Man: Extremis Sea Port Battle from 2013.
> 4 votes

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Tags: set-identification, sticker-identification
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title: How can I identify LEGO stickers?

text:
# Question
Title: How can I identify LEGO stickers?
What steps can I take to identify LEGO stickers/sticker sheets and which sets they belong to?

# Answer
Using the full sticker sheet for #60150 Pizza Van set as an example, there are a few options.

1. If you have the full sticker sheet, you might be able to find a part number for the sticker sheet (in this case 29583/6174606), it can usually be found at the bottom and/or near 'LEGO GROUP'. Use either Bricklink sticker search or Google to find the original set. Older LEGO sticker sheets might only use the set ID.
2. A lot of sets, particularly those released in the last two decades and particularly CITY sets will use the set ID on vehicle number plates. Usually for number plates, the first two letters will be the initials of the set designer and the following number would represent the set ID. They can also be found in more creative places such as a tail number for a helicopter.
3. Google Image Search has a function called 'Search by Image', this can be found be pressing the camera icon in the Google Images search field. Take a picture of the sticker sheet, or a single identifiable sticker. Ensure that the photo is in focus, well lit and from directly above and upload.

Google will try to find keywords to match the image uploaded, this isn't always helpful so you may need to replace the keywords with 'LEGO', 'Sticker' and if possible, the theme that the set might belong to.

4. If everything else fails, you can use the registered trademark year to narrow down the year it was produced/released. In this case, the release date must be during or after 2017. It's possible that a sticker sheet could be reprinted in following years to correct a flaw in the design and that the year could change.

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**Tips**

* The first sets to have stickers were released from 1971 onwards. \[Source\]
* Steps 2 and 3 can also be used to identify some printed parts.
* If you find a sticker attached to a rare part or a part produced in a rare colour, it might be worth finding that part on Bricklink and finding the sets that it is used in.
> 6 votes

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Tags: stickers, sticker-identification
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# Question
Title: Do you know which set these large grey ball and socket pieces belong to?
Does anyone know which set this piece belongs to:

# Answer
The top two pieces there (not the 2x2 square) are

**Cylinder Hemisphere 2 x 2 Ball Turret Socket Base**

and

**Cylinder Hemisphere 3 x 3 Ball Turret**

The top appears in 28 sets, the simplest of which is this ion cannon
> 4 votes

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Tags: part-identification, set-identification
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# Question
Title: How can a Mindstorms robot lift something very heavy?
I have a small LEGO Mindstorms robot and it needs to lift heavy objects, but it doesn't seem possible because the motor cannot bear the load. What methods or mechanisms can I use to make the robot stronger?

# Answer
I'm assuming that you meant "the motor is not powerful enough".

Surely you can use a gearing ratio & leverage to assist? Essentially you want the motor to turn many times for each small amount of distance traveled by the lifting arm. This means a small gear on the motor and a large gear driving the lifting. You may need to connect several gears together to get enough of a reduction, like the graphic here.

See the graphic "Reducing Gear Train" here.
> 9 votes

# Answer
## Pulleys and gears

With a range of pulleys and gears you can build something capable of lifting as much as 100 kilos with LEGO parts, albeit at the risk of putting enormous amounts of stress on the bricks!

Using a small gear to power a larger gear (gearing down), you can greatly improve the torque (rotational force) at the cost of reduced speed. Gear transmissions are favourable to belt pulley system as the teeth of the gears prevent slippage under high loads.

The motor may struggle with too many gears as the level of friction increases.

## Ratchets

Ratchets (consisting of a pawl and a gear) are a mechanical device used to ensure rotary motion only proceeds in one direction.

These are notably present on roller coasters where you can hear the audible click of a pawl catching a gear as you ascend a lift hill. If the motor or cable should fail, it acts as a safety measure to prevent the coaster from falling back down the hill.

Ratchets will reduce strain on the motor at the cost of putting more strain on the ratchet and limiting the direction of movement. To reverse the movement, the pawl would need to be disengaged in some way.

## Alternative Power

Consider how you can use alternative forms of power, depending on your design however using anything other than an electric motor may not be appropriate.

If you aren't concerned about producing instant motion, think about ways to store and conserve energy. An advanced solution would be to use a solid or fluid as a counterweight. Perhaps using the motor to pump water from a reservoir into a container that can counterbalance the weight you are lifting?

## Other Design Considerations

**Structural Reinforcement**

It is essential to identify weak links and reinforce them structurally. Ensure that parts that parts do not move unless required to. Avoid using long axles/bricks that are prone to bending as well as old/damaged pieces.

**Motors**

Are you able to use more motors to share the strain of the load? If so, ensure that the construction is well balanced and each motor contributes equally (same gear ratio).

**Power**

Consider using mains power to power the motors if possible. Motors using batteries will have reduced power in relation to the power left in the battery.
> 7 votes

# Answer
Try adjusting the torque. If that does not work for you, then use a large motor to help out.
> -2 votes

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Tags: mindstorms, technic, motor
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# Question
Title: Star Wars Ship - Which LEGO Set Is This?
I received a large assortment of free *LEGO* from a family member, and can't seem to locate which ship this may be.

I'm thinking it's part of the *Clone Wars*. Anyone recognize it?

# Answer
Its at least two sets.

Set #7674 "*V-19 Torrent*". and...
Set #8087 "*TIE Defender*".

**Extra Credit:**

Upper left hand corner.

Set #6747 "*Race Rider*".
> 7 votes

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Tags: set-identification, star-wars
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title: What is this element ID?

text:
# Question
Title: What is this element ID?
What is this element ID?? Could you please help?

# Answer
> 5 votes
This is :

Part # 4285b
Dish 6 x 6 Inverted (Radar) Webbed - Type 2 (underside attachment positions at 90 degrees)

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Tags: piece-information, part-identification
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# Question
Title: Is it safe to wash LEGO pieces in the dishwasher?
I've heard from a lot of people that LEGO can be washed in the dishwasher, but I'm concerned about warping, losing stickers, wearing off of painted pieces, etc. Is it safe to actually wash them in the dishwasher? Is there any other precaution you should take?

# Answer
I have had good experiences when putting them into a washing bag. Stickers will usually come off. Paint differs from model, year and make. Some of my bricks from the 80'ies (such as this one) still look very new, with the original print intact.
> 14 votes

# Answer
LEGO does not recommend using a dishwasher to clean your bricks:

> We recommend that you clean or wash your LEGO parts only by hand at max. 40°C or 104 degrees (F) Fahrenheit. Higher temperatures may affect the quality of the LEGO parts. You can add a mild detergent to the water, followed by rinsing with clear water. **Please don't put your bricks in the washing machine or dishwasher or attempt to dry them in ovens, microwaves or with hair dryers**. Any electrical parts, such as cables, motors, battery compartments, can only be wiped off with alcohol. Air-dry parts at room temperature. For disinfecting please use mild bleach.

(emphasis mine)
> 23 votes

# Answer
The real answer here is no, but please have a look at **my answer** to this other question for an alternative that really works, bringing them up as new, with only a little elbow grease - a bath of Milton solution.
> 6 votes

# Answer
At some point, LEGO recommended the use of a washing machine instead of a dishwasher, since you could limit the temperature to 40°. However, you'll need to make sure all parts are safely enclosed in a cloth (pillow case for example), and don't expect your bricks not to be scratched at all.
> 6 votes

# Answer
I have washed thousands of Lego and Duplo bricks in the washing machine as per the suggestion of Lego Store staff that have kid's events. The Lego stores use washing machines. None of by bricks have warped. I use warm water wash on gentle cycle, and I soak them by lifting up the lid. I add about a half cup of chlorine to a load to disinfect the bricks as I have many different kids playing with the bricks.

I purchase washing machine nylon net bags at the dollar store, and put the bricks in the bags. Equipment bags also work well. Do not wash small items that can poke through the netting holes, and especially leaves that get stuck in the small holes of the nylon net bags and rip them apart - those I wash and disinfect in the sink. There are all sorts of strainers available for you to use to fish out the parts from a sink.

I throw Duplo bricks without bags or nets directly into the washing machine, as they are huge, and I shovel them out using a huge draining spoon also purchased at the dollar store. I have over a thousand Duplo bricks and so far not one has been damaged. Stickers are another story. Some are affected, some are not.
> 6 votes

# Answer
I would not recommend using a dishwasher. I have seen terribly worn bricks with a very ugly, dull surface as a result of multiple dishwasher procedures. Sometimes you can notice that a dishwasher etches even a glass surface.

The damage could probably be caused by a combination of the water properties, detergent being used, and temperature.
> 4 votes

# Answer
Don't use the dishwasher. My husband misread washing machine and we put them in the dishwasher nearly half of them warped!
> 3 votes

# Answer
Front load washers should be fine with the regular bricks as long as you use the gentle cycle. ABS plastic is tough.

As for dishwashers, they have heating elements that heat the water to a temperature way beyond your water heater. Washing machines never get close to the temperature that dishwashers use. I never saw steam coming out of a washing machine but steam comes out of my dishwasher every time I open the door to it. That is a clue that water is close to the boiling point.

If you are really worried then throw the bricks into a tub full of soapy water and let soak for 3 hours, mix it around, throw in a cup of bleach at the end, drain with strainer over drain hole.
> 2 votes

# Answer
I wouldn't recommend it, as I once received a large number of old (not sure how old) and dirty Lego pieces. My parents then preceded to put them in the dishwasher. Some of the parts, such as the standard bricks survived, but pieces such as plates became bent and warped.
> 1 votes

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Tags: cleaning
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title: Inventory website/app/software?

text:
# Question
Title: Inventory website/app/software?
I have several Lego sets, and I wanted to see if there was any app/software/website that I could enter the set number, and it would automatically inventory the bricks that I have. It would also be great if it had a catalog of builds that it could cross reference across my inventory, and show me things I could build now/could build if I purchased a few more bricks.

Does anything like this currently exist?

# Answer
> 5 votes
Rebrickeable does what you are looking for. You can create an account and upload all of your sets by entering the set numbers. The website will automatically inventory all of your sets, and check what other sets and even custom models created by the community you could build with the parts you have. Here is the link to the website: https://rebrickable.com/

If you don't want to upload your entire collection but just want to quickly check what else you can build from parts of a few sets, you can check the combination of parts from up to three sets and see what you else you can build with it. This feature is under the BUILD tab: https://rebrickable.com/build/

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Tags: inventory
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# Question
Title: Can you identify this minifigure with green skin and red hat?
I would like to know who this minifigure is or what set it belongs to.

# Answer
The minifigure that you have is Kithaba from Star Wars:

https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?M=sw397#T=P

it appears in this set:

9496-1: Desert Skiff
> 5 votes

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Tags: minifigures, minifigure-identification
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# Question
Title: How do I make trains which fit LEGO rails (6 studs)?
Christmas is coming and my son (7) is asking for trains.

I was planning to buy a set, but they are expensive, and I think it is a bit too advanced for my son.

Therefore I decided to buy a box of rails (just rails) as well as LEGO pieces. I think we would not have a problem with the top parts of trains (we have plenty of LEGO bricks at home), but I am not sure which wheels to buy.

Do you have any recommendations? We have a couple of train wheels. Will any LEGO train wheels work for the rails?

I have wheels from this Classic set:

# Answer
The most common train wheels (2878) look like this:

These may be available directly from LEGO via online Pick-a-Brick or Bricks and Pieces, but it is probably easiest and cheapest to get them used on Bricklink.

If you want something cheaper, you could go with the small track-compatible wheels (50254):

That part is available very cheaply on Bricklink. These have been used in many sets, often having nothing to do with trains, but you can see how they are used to run on track in Rail and Road Service Truck (4541):

Those small wheels obviously wouldn't look great on a full scale LEGO train, but you might be able to put something together that looks alright at a somewhat smaller scale.
> 4 votes

# Answer
That set comes with wheel holders, that place the wheels for rails 4 studs wide, i.e not suitable for LEGO tracks.

Unfortunately I can't find any non-train sets containing parts suitable for LEGO tracks, but at the moment you should be able to buy the newest edition of the Hogwarts express (set #75955), that is at least not motorised or comes with tracks, so you don't pay for either. It's still not cheap though.
> 3 votes

# Answer
LEGO trains come with special wheels, wheel-bases and magnetic connectors that are only available with LEGO train sets. While you might be able to cobble together something that sort of works, there is no substitute for the actual train parts.

The train wheels are designed in such a way that they can run smoothly on both curved and straight LEGO train tracks. If you study their shapes, you will see that they are actually quite complex. Train wheels are connected with small metal rods, instead of LEGO Technic axles, to assure a very smooth ride over the tracks. The special wheel-bases are designed to accommodate the wheels and metal axles, and are just the right length to be able to handle curved tracks. And the magnetic connectors allow easy coupling of the train cars.

While some LEGO car wheels have grooves, they are not designed to fit on LEGO train tracks. Some can sort of perch on top of the rails, but they are wobbly, and will run off the tracks easily, especially on curves.

If you would like to get into LEGO trains, I recommend getting an actual LEGO train set to avoid all the hassle and frustration of trying to build something from parts that are not meant for trains. Just get the cheapest LEGO train you can find. It will give you all the parts you need to build a train, and you can always customize the engine and cars from parts you already have.

Currently, the cheapest LEGO train is the #75955 Hogwarts Express for $80. However, you can often find better prices on eBay for used LEGO trains or partial sets with only the train but no extra parts and minifigures. Also check Amazon during the holiday shopping season. They usually discount older LEGO trains by 20-30%.
> 2 votes

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Tags: trains
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title: Partial set identification

text:
# Question
Title: Partial set identification
Hi,

I bought a bag of sealed LEGO from the second hand shop. It is labelled 6 so must be part of a larger set. Is anyone able to identify it?

# Answer
The "Red Support 1 x 6 x 5 Girder Rectangular" answers this.

It's only in two sets, and in 3368 there are 10, which your picture doesn't show, so this is probably 4430 Fire transporter.

EDIT: There are no "Trans-Light Blue Panel 1 x 2 x 2 with Side Supports - Hollow Studs" in 3368, so this is definitely 4430.
> 6 votes

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Tags: set-identification
---


# Question
Title: How do you convert the ev3p program files and assets back into an ev3 project file?
I edited the ev3p file, and I want to see the changes by opening it in the ev3 IDE. How do I convert all of the files back into an ev3 project file?

# Answer
> 1 votes
I've figured it out. To anyone who wants to know, the reason why the ev3 IDE wouldn't work is because I made a zip file with the folder with the all of the items instead of compressing the items themselves.

# Answer
> 0 votes
The `.ev3` is simply a zip file. So you can use just zip everything up in a `.zip` file and then rename the file extension from `.zip` to `.ev3`.

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Tags: ev3
---


# Question
Title: What tools can I use to get better prices on a large list of parts on Bricklink?
I prepared a long list of parts (Wanted List) that I want to buy using Bricklink. It is clear that I won't be able to get all the parts I need from a single seller and have identified three Bricklink stores that can cover the full list of parts I need.

What tools can I use to distribute the parts I need across the three stores to get the best prices?

Previously there have been tools like Brick Wizard and Brickficiency but those do not seem to work with the updated Bricklink website. Are there currently any alternatives? I'm not shy to do some programming myself, but maybe there's a good starting point somewhere?

# Answer
> 1 votes
A new developer has updated Brickficiency to the new Bricklink API...

You can download it here: https://github.com/WindmillHelix/Brickficiency2/releases

I've tested it shortly, it seems to work as well as the old Brickficiency. Haven't tested it well enough to check if it provides significant better options than Bricklinks own Easy Buy feature...

Just like the old Brickficiency, it's infeasible to process significantly long Wanted Lists as it uses a brute force approach (simply trying all store combinations)...

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Tags: shopping, bricklink
---


title: Why is this piece notched?

text:
# Question
Title: Why is this piece notched?
It's nowhere as deep as the garage door notches they designed to let the doors slide up and down.

How does the notch fit into the initial set that the part was first introduced and does this shallow groove have specific function?

For reference, this is "Plate, Modified 1 x 2 with 4 x 4 Dish at 90 degrees" (30209).

# Answer
As far as I know, it's not intended to have any building function, it's just there to prevent any excess plastic at the fill hole from getting in the way of other pieces.

I can't find a good close-up picture, but that particular piece is filled through a hole in the mold at that location, which you can kinda see in this picture.

Without the small recess, if the sprue were to leave behind a small nub, it could prevent sticking the piece next to another piece.
> 7 votes

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Tags: piece-information, manufacturing, snot
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# Question
Title: From which set is this bag? All grey 1x1 round bricks and 2x2 domes
I received this bag together with a used set. It is bag number 1 and it says copyright from 2007. The content is \>10 of round 1x1 bricks and 2x2 round dome bricks, in dark bluish gray and light bluish gray each.

These are very useful parts, but I wonder whether it is better not to open it when it comes from a valuable set.

Jncraton found it in 42055. Bag(s) 1 contain the dump truck and the debris.

However, I don't know why the bag says "2007".

# Answer
> 8 votes
That's got to be the bag of aggregate from Bucket Wheel Excavator (42055).

# Answer
> 3 votes
I used to have this set and I believe it belongs to this set:

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Tags: set-identification
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# Question
Title: Has Anyone Motorized Ocean Explorer Set #42064?
Me gustaría saber si tiene alguien monitorizado motorized el LEGO Technic - Explorador oceánico 42064 y si es así si alguien podría pasarme las instrucciones?

Muchas gracias!

***Google Text Translated:***

I would like to know if anyone has *motorized* the LEGO Technic - Ocean Explorer 42064, and if so, could someone show me how?

Thank you!

***Editor's note:*** Translation errors aside, I'm using this *Youtube* video Here as a reference to what I think the OP is referring to when he means "Motorized" in hopes that more people will at least understand what he's looking for, and focus on getting the answer he wants.

* Based off what the darn thing does, is it possible to motorized these functions?

* The main vessel itself has wheels to make it go forward and backward.

* It has a steerable moving rudder.

There are more functions like a moveable Crane, Helicopter and Submarine. Not sure how many things he wants to hook up to a motor, so I kept focused on the moving ship.

# Answer
> 3 votes
Here is a video of 42064 as RC model but no building instructions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7P5WEdphSE

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Tags: technic, power-functions, remote-control
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# Question
Title: Can you identify these 1x2 and 2x2 bricks with grooves?
As far as I understand, these are modified with groove bricks. However, search for 'groove' on BrickLink gives only left one. Which are the other two? Which other parts have similar vertical groove and do not have 'groove' word in the name?

# Answer
Actually found via Google pictures. On bricklink need to use 'grooves' in search, partial matches do not work there.
> 3 votes

# Answer
Here are the listings from Bricklink.com (left to right).

**Brick, Modified 1 x 2 with Groove** https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?P=4216#T=C

**Brick, Modified 2 x 2 with Grooves and Axle Hole** https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?P=90258#T=C

I'm not sure about the last one. Maybe:

**Brick, Modified 2 x 2 x 6 with Groove** https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?P=6056#T=C
> 1 votes

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Tags: part-identification
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# Question
Title: Can You Identify These Black Studless 2x4 Brick With Train Wheels?
I found a bunch of Pat Pend *LEGO* in a thrift shop. Among all the goodies there are two black smooth 2x4 bricks with train wheels attached to them.

Their characteristics are as followed:

* They are studless.
* Have a closed bottom.
* On one of the long sides there is a half moon like cut-out with a sort of flat hook thing.
* On the short sides there are detachable train wheels with ten spokes.
* The wheel axles are made of yellow brass.
* The logo on top is the old *LEGO* logo with the letter "*O*" being open.
* The logo is quite large.

Can anyone help me identify these parts?

# Answer
> 5 votes
Hey, there *Happy Dog*! These train pieces?

* Part #*BB37* \- Train Brick 2 x 4 x 1 1/3 Sliding Block with Wheels Holder.
* Part #*Wheel2A* \- Wheel Spoked for Motor.

Together they appear in *these* *LEGO* sets.

See ya!

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Tags: part-identification, trains, wheel, discontinued
---


# Question
Title: Unknown Set: White spaceship? with clear blue canopy
Do you know which set this is? It's incomplete, and I would like to get the instructions. It looks a bit like a spaceship...

# Answer
> 5 votes
Hey *Mc5*,

Set #*76028 Darkseid Invasion*.

Build instructions *here*.

Have fun!

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Tags: set-identification
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# Question
Title: Unknown sticker on a dark grey 1x2 tile, black lines, printed handled?
I bought a big bundle of LEGO, and I'm trying to find out the sets.

This one is on a dark grey 1x2 tile, with black lines and printed handled.

Can you identify this sticker?

# Answer
Comes from Set #*75038* Jedi Interceptor.
> 6 votes

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Tags: set-identification, star-wars, sticker-identification
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# Question
Title: About selling old LEGO, by the pound or assembled?
I was just wondering how much does a pound of bulk usually sell for. I also have tons of star wars mini-figs, including tons of clone troopers of different kinds, stormtroopers, battle droids, but some are relatively worn, are they worth anything? I also have some pretty destroyed sets that can probably be rebuilt but I don't have the instructions anymore, should I just disassemble them?

# Answer
> 1 votes
In general, a pound of LEGO goes $5-$10, depending on what's included and the condition of the parts.

As far as how much your minifigures are worth, you can go to BrickLink.com, find the minifigures you have in their database, and check the Price Guide. It will list all the currently available minifigs sold by shops around the world, and sales figures from the past six month. There are separate columns for new and used figures, so you will get a good idea of what minifigs in similar condition as yours are selling for. To get you started, here is the main page for all the Star Wars figures: https://www.bricklink.com/catalogList.asp?catType=M&catString=65&itemBrand=1000

In regards to sets, you can check the BrickLink Price Guide for those as well. Some might be worth selling assembled, while for others it doesn't matter. You can download instruction from LEGO's website here: https://www.lego.com/en-us/service/buildinginstructions

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Tags: shopping
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# Question
Title: Unknown stickers with silver lines on black 2x4 tiles
I found two stickers in a bundle that I can't link to any set.

Do you know which sets they may belong to?

# Answer
> 4 votes
Comes from Set #*76047* Black Panther Pursuit.

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Tags: set-identification, sticker-identification
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# Question
Title: Can you identify this white, blue, and green train body?
Got that is a bag of parts. For some reason one part of train (it look like train to me) is upside-down by direction of stubs. Browsed through all 4 hundred sets by searching for 'train' on Bricklink but had not spotted that one.

# Answer
> 10 votes
I do not know much about LEGO, but that what you show in the photo looks like an airplane to me. Perhaps I'm right, perhaps I'm wrong.

Edit:

It's from A.I.R. Operations HQ (4620).

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Tags: set-identification
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# Question
Title: What are all the third party (unofficial) accessories I can get for an NXT
Similar to this question but I'd like to know about 3rd Party/aftermarket options instead please.

I've heard about motor multiplexers and the like but are there others, i.e. more sensitive colour detectors etc.?

# Answer
> 14 votes
There are MANY companies that offer third party stuff for NXT:

* Mindsensors, already mentionned in pcantin's answer
    + Vision Subsystem - Capable of tracking up to 8 coloured objects
    + Touch Panel
    + Numeric Pad
    + IR Obstacle Detector
    + Sony PS2 Controller Interface
    + Line Sensor Array
    + Accelerometer
    + Realtime Clock
    + Power Meter
    + IR Distance Sensors (Long/mid/short range)
    + Multiplexers for motors and sensors
    + Linear Actuators
* HiTechnic
* Dexter Industries
    + Wifi Sensor - a wifi connection for the NXT
    + Inertial Motion Sensor - Acceleration, tilt and angular velocity
    + Thermal IR Sensor - Reads surface temperatures
    + Digi XBee Radio - Long distance radio communications
    + GPS
    + Solar panels
* Actuonix Motion Devices Inc.
    + Linear Actuators
* Rotacaster
    + Omni Directional Wheels
* Microinfinity
    + Inertial Motion Sensor - Acceleration, tilt, angular velocity and tracks relative position
* Codatex
    + RFID Sensor and transponders
* Nullspace
    + IO Expansion
* Vernier
    + Sensor Adapter - Allows access to over 30 Vernier sensors
* Generation Robots
    + POB-Bridge - Allows access to the POB sensors and accessories
    + Reseller of other sensors mentioned above
* Trossen Robotics
    + Reseller of other sensors mentioned above

... and I'm pretty sure I forget several!

# Answer
> 3 votes
There's lots of third party SENSORS to attach (see very helpful list from Philo), but I found it hard to find any info on third party MOTORS to connect to EV3. Pretty much only the mindsensors.com extensions to connect RC servos and position encoding adapters to slap on power function lego motors. So I took to the LEGO hardware documentation and put together a small info page on how to connect a small third-party DC motor (sensored) to control it from the EV3 brick. It's all here: http://www.biasedlogic.com/index.php/running-third-party-motor-with-your-mindstorms-ev3-nxt/ comments and feedback welcome

In short: the EV3 can power a dc motor up to about 500mA (full load) directly, provided the motor is equipped with a 5V-compatible encoder (many cheap motors are available with magnetic/Hall effect encoder wheels). It does not have to be an optical encoder like the original LEGO motors have, a simple magnetic wheel with hall sensors can do just as good a job.

Marek

# Answer
> 1 votes
In addition to these helpful answers, I'd like to add that the reason there are so many 3rd party devices and options is because the NXT supports an incredibly wide variety of electronic and data protocols. The NXT can directly interact with sensors over:
\- Bluetooth SPP
\- RS-485 (only on Port 4)
\- I2C
\- Analog

So pretty much any robotics/hobbyist device that uses one of these methods can be interfaced with the NXT. See the NXT Hardware Developer Kit for technical details and specifications. Note that in order to use many of these devices you'll have to use a 3rd-party firmware solution as well, such as NXC or LeJOS.

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Tags: nxt, 3rd-party, accessories
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# Question
Title: Can I store LEGO in negative (minus) Celsius?
I've found this question: How can I store LEGO bricks to prevent damage? and the answers don't tell, what happens below 0°C. Can I store unopened LEGO boxes where temperature can go down until even -15, -20°C?

# Answer
> 7 votes
**Generally yes**, as long as:

* there are no electronics inside (like Power Functions, Mindstorms, etc.)
* the temperature stays below freezing
* you allow plenty of time in dry environment to thaw out

No, if the temperature rides up and down and you want to keep the box and paper booklet intact - it will draw moisture with each thaw cycle.

No if electronics, especially with integrated lithium batteries, are involved (but even without batteries it's not good to freeze electronic components).

LEGO is made of ABS and sometimes some other general purpose plastics. They become brittle when cold, but go back to normal once temperature returns to room levels.

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Tags: storage
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# Question
Title: How To Sort Out 3rd Party Technic Clones From LEGO Originals?
I've recently bought bulk parts, and wish to sort out the official *LEGO* pieces from the inferior quality 3rd party clones.

On *bricks* I can easily spot-out the clones, becasue they don't sport the "*LEGO*" logo on the *studs*.

So, I'm looking for an easy way to spot-out fakes on non-studded pieces like this Technic Bushing:

My tip off is that some of the Bushings don't grip well to various axles, thus giving me the idea that these Bushings too, might be some inferior quality 3rd party clones.

Some of the Bushings have *VERY* tiny writings with the "LEGO" logo.

* Does this mean all pieces without the logo are clones?
* Has *LEGO* branded all parts (even the smallest) with a logo?
* Has it been doing so from many years back?

I suspect it could be more complicated, for example, many stud-less parts like this thin part:

have some numbers and the copyright "*(c)*" sign, but no "*LEGO*" logo. I've checked many pieces. Some large ones have "*LEGO Group*" written on it.

So, regarding authenticity, would the logo matter?

Maybe I'm into perfection too much, but I'd like to sort-out my collection form the fakes, and preferably without breaking out the 10x monocle lens.

What would you advice?

# Answer
Regarding the *Bushings*, I think the loss of their gripping/clutching power has less to due with a phantom cloning agent, and more to due with the quality of the official *LEGO* piece, and how plastic degrades over time.

My collection has *Bushings* that are weak too, but its due to age (over 25+ years) and normal play. Mine are not clones.

Now the issue with copyright holders is a little different. *LEGO* doesn't hold the patent design for the classic brick, becasue they didn't invent it, so now it's a friggin' free for all with clone "bricks" manufacturers.

As for non-brick designs like the *Technic Bush*, and that thin blue piece, *LEGO* owns those, and could bring forward litigation to copyright infringers.
> 4 votes

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Tags: technic, history, clone-brands, 3rd-party, quality
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# Question
Title: Is there a site with the (previous) monthly LEGO Store mini-build instructions?
We have been going to the LEGO Store off & on for the monthly mini-build, but haven't been able to make it there for quite a few. I've been searching the web for the instructions for the builds we missed, but have come up short. LEGO posts the current models instructions for about a week and takes them down. Is there a site where we can find the instructions for the previous mini-build models?

# Answer
A list of previous monthly mini models can be found on Brickset. The instructions can be found in the notes section under the sidebar on the right for each model.
> 17 votes

# Answer
On https://lakea.nl/minimodellen, I managed to collect pdf files for all existing models since 2010. Even the ones Brickset does not mention. :)
> 6 votes

# Answer
Yes. In the following sites the names of the Mini Builds are in english.

https://legominibuilds.wordpress.com/

https://monthlyminimodelbuild.weebly.com/models-grouped-by-month.html

https://www.brickowl.com/catalog/lego-instructions/promotional/monthly-mini-model-build
> 4 votes

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Tags: instructions, lego-store
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# Question
Title: Are LEGO Clikits elements compatible with the brick system?
Are LEGO Clikits elements in some way compatible with the LEGO brick system?

# Answer
> 13 votes
According to ***this*** review on *The Brick Blogger*, yes, *BUT*...

After watching ***this*** video by *Maniac4Bricks*, it seems the compatibility is very limited.

# Answer
> 7 votes
Also the frames are to some extent compatible. The entire frame is 9 studs wide, the little holes align with studs. I've seen this frame used in a GBC module.

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Tags: compatibility
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# Question
Title: What is average weight of booklets (instructions) in %?
As far as I understand weight of sets is noted on bricklink and other places includes all. I did not see how to list set's items along with weight in table on bricklink to check for that. Am I correct here? If yes, I want to know 'net' weight of parts alone, why doesn't bricklink have it too if it knows weights of parts?

IMHO weight of packaging is negligible, but I noted booklets can take up to 30% of weight. I've read sometime ago a post where a person claimed to extract bricklink data to database and made some other analysis. Anyway, anyhow, what is average weight of booklets (instructions) in %?

# Answer
Bricklink has this information for most sets. If you search for the set number, you get several entries. The top one is the entire set, and has the weight for the full sealed box with parts and instructions. Then there are two more entries, one for the Instructions and one for the Box. See here for an example using set 41314 Stephanie’s House.

If you go into each of these entries, you will find a weight for each. In the case of 41314, the total set weighs 1340g, the instructions weigh 318g and the empty box weighs 210g. So, doing the math, the pieces alone (assuming any stickers have negligible weight) weigh 1340-210-318=812g.

I don’t think there is a clear percentage for the weight of the instructions compared to the weight of the set, but feel free to use the BrickLink API to extract the above 3 pieces of information for ALL sets and calculate the average. I think you will find that the percentage varies due to a number of factors, such as: the number of instruction books used, the quality of the binding (some books are glued, some have staples), the weight of the paper used (some instructions use thinner paper than others), the set theme (IDEAS sets tend to have long explanatory stories before they dive into instructions), etc.
> 5 votes

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Tags: instructions, size, weight
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# Question
Title: What is the origin of the 2001 BIONICLE pin?
Recently I got one of these in a lot.

Picture of the back

Prior to receiving it, I didn't even know it existed, and can't find any information on it on the web.

What is the origin of this 2001 BIONICLE pin? Was it sold or handed out somewhere as a promotional item? Made for and worn by LEGO employees? How would one have obtained one in 2001 (assuming that's when it was made)?

# Answer
> 2 votes
This is

Pin85 BIONICLE Toa

a Patch & Pin set

given for free with LEGO Magazine or available at LEGOLAND Parks

Pin85 BIONICLE Toa at Bricklink.com

Pin85 BIONICLE Toa at lego.fandom.com

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Tags: bionicle
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# Question
Title: Is there any legit positive impact of LEGO on mental health?
Is there any legit research done on the impact of LEGO on mental health?

For instance, does it positively affect kids’ mental development or does it help with stress, anxiety or any other mental-health issues?

# Answer
Yes.

Here is a study that demonstrates one way to use LEGO in ADHD counseling.

If you are looking for a more rigorous outcomes-focused methodology, there's another study that looked at the impact of LEGO on social skills development in children. It found significant improvement compared to the control in a pre-test, post-test study.

If your interested in the developmental side of LEGO, here's a study that shows a correlation between complex LEGO play in 3 and 4 year olds and their secondary school mathematics achievement.

On the adult side, here's a study that shows a decrease in workplace stress after a group LEGO activity.

I'm sure there are loads more, but that's what a quick search on Google Scholar turned up.
> 11 votes

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Tags: safety
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title: High Torque Subtractors

text:
# Question
Title: High Torque Subtractors
I would like to use a subtractor in my next RC LEGO tank, as it enables the vehicle to turn on the move, as opposed to stopping and then turning.

Unfortunately, the subtractors I have tested so far cannot withstand the torque of heavy vehicles, which either causes the subtractor to break apart, or the differentials/gears to grind.

Does anyone know any subtractor designs which are able to deal with high tension/torque/stress levels so that enormous vehicles can still use them? 3kg-5kg tolerance would be ideal.

# Answer
It sounds like you need a stronger differential.

Might I suggest this design by Nazgarot:

If you make two, you can build a big and sturdy subtractor like this (probably customizing the gear ratios to your requirements, the right gearing could also remove the need for a PF switch):

Here's a video of it in action:
> 6 votes

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Tags: technic, gears, mechanical
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# Question
Title: What is the largest Lego kit commercially available?
I believe the Imperial Star Destroyer is the biggest in terms of size, at 58.8 cm by 50.5 cm by 21 cm, and the Death Star in the number of pieces, at 3803. Are there any newer, bigger models?

# Answer
In 2008, LEGO released an exclusive Creator model of the Taj Mahal, with **5922 pieces**, the most in a commercial LEGO set.

It is no longer available at the LEGO Shop, but it's still commercially available from other retailers. Here's its Amazon product page.
> 21 votes

# Answer
The Super Star Destroyer, with 3152 pieces, is nearly 50 inches (124.5 cm) long and weighs nearly 8 pounds (3.5kg):

While the Ultimate Collectors Edition Millennium Falcon had over 5000 pieces, and was 33" long, 22" wide and 8" tall! (84cm long x 56cm wide x 21cm tall), and was officially advertised as the biggest set ever made - it was almost exactly to Mini Figure scale as well.
> 8 votes

# Answer
In terms of height, I think the Eiffel Tower is unmatched, standing at 1 meter tall on a base of 50x50cm. When looking at the picture below, keep in mind a cat can easily pass under the arches:

The parts count, at 3428, isn't too bad either.
> 7 votes

# Answer
The set with the most pieces as of 2018 is the **#75192 Millennium Falcon** with 7541 pieces.

It measures over 8” (21cm) high, 33” (84cm) long and 22” (56cm) wide.
> 2 votes

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Tags: records, sets
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# Question
Title: Are These Minifig Helmet, Hair, and Stingray Accessories Official LEGO Parts?
I bought some minifigures on the internet, but these helmet, hair, and animal parts only have NUMBERS on them, but no *LEGO* logo.

They feel like *LEGO*, but I'm not sure. Does anyone know a way?

# Answer
> 6 votes
Welcome to BRICKS!

These are the four official LEGO parts you questioned.

Cross check their part numbers with the ones you've got on hand.

If they match, then they're good.

See ya!

***Part# 61189pb03.***

*

***Part# 15083pb01.***

*

***Part# 30084.***

*

***Part# 43753.***

*

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Tags: part-identification, minifigures, star-wars
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title: LEGO custom One Piece

text:
# Question
Title: LEGO custom One Piece
Does anyone know where I can find custom LEGO figures or MOCs of the One Piece Manga/Anime, preferably made using authentic LEGO elements?

# Answer
> 3 votes
I'm assuming you are referring to the One Piece anime series.

There are no official Lego sets for the One Piece anime series. If there were, you'd have seen them in the Lego catalogs.

Searching the web, I've found that there is a company called Diamond Blocks that has created One Piece sets. Strangely, they don't seem to have minifigs of the crew.

You could perhaps customize your own minifigs. You could make some stickers and apply them to your existing minifigs, for example.

Or you could contact Lego company and ask them. One Piece is a pretty popular series, so assuming this Diamond Blocks company doesn't have an exclusive license, they might just be interested in creating it.

# Answer
> 0 votes
There are third party companies like KORUIT that have made "One Piece" minifigures. You can check out the review on the KORUIT "One Piece" minifigure here: https://customizeminifiguresintelligence.wordpress.com/2018/12/14/review-of-koruit-one-piece-minifigures-xp036-041-kt1008-kt1013/

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Tags: minifigures
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# Question
Title: How can I create custom EV3 blocks (developer mode)?
What do I need to create custom blocks and in particular the VIX part?

# Answer
> 6 votes
You only need the official LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 software.

LEGO provides a "EV3 Block Developer Kit" on the MINDSTORMS downloads page. This contains some minimal instructions on creating blocks. It also contains an older version of the EV3 software.

However, I have found that any version of the MINDSTORMS software can be used in "developer mode" by creating a file named `MindstormsEV3.ini` with the following contents:

```
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8" ?>
<Tokens DeveloperMode="True" />

```

Save this file in the directory where the software is installed, e.g. `C:\Program Files (x86)\LEGO Software\LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 Home Edition\`, then start the software.

# Answer
> -2 votes
For input output you can use the OtherFiles Folder\> EV3 and import the PBricks primitive.

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Tags: ev3, programming
---


title: How are LEGO sets designed?

text:
# Question
Title: How are LEGO sets designed?
I've often wondered how it is that LEGO goes about creating new sets. I can easily imagine a person sitting in a room all day with unlimited pieces of every shape but with some of the complicated sets we see these days there must be some sort of computer aid.

Do the designers model new sets on a computer which then figures out pieces and instructions or do they do build and tweak until things seem just right?

Can anyone provide insight into the process that LEGO takes on creating new sets?

# Answer
I once had an acquaintance who worked at Lego as a product designer (I don't remember his exact title). His job was, simply put, to come up with new sets. There are some general constraints – balancing the different Lego worlds/themes (contemporary, pirate-age, Star Wars, Harry Potter, etc.), hitting certain price points/box sizes (limiting the number of bricks in a set), coming up with sets that work well together, targeting different age groups/motor skills etc.

LEGO also tries to design the individual pieces to be used in many settings. The same terrain/foundation was used with different paint for the anti-pirate fortress (which my sister had) and the dragon knights castle (which I had). In the old days it was fairly rare for Lego to make new brick types – it has become less so, as their manufacturing processes have become more nimble and less expensive.

As for the software used in designing LEGO sets, I know little about it. They do use software/brick simulation, but also work with the physical bricks, especially the old hands :)
> 24 votes

# Answer
As far as I know, designers work mostly with bricks only.

They do have a desk and a quasi-unlimited supply of parts (which I think is actually not too exactly close to their desks), and usually use their imagination the same way a fan does.

Something which fans don't do however, and which designers must do, is keep track of the price of the model they're building so that it's in line with the expected price point (these are determined by marketing when a theme is started).

This is much more complicated than it sounds, because element prices aren't always logical (for example, a Technic axle 5 is cheaper than a 4), and the number of different elements counts too (that's why sometimes they use other parts than what would be logical, such as a 1×2 brick with groove when the groove has no purpose whatsoever at that place, but since the brick is already included elsewhere and a regular 1×2 isn't, it's cheaper to use).

In short, all production costs are taken into account, including packaging and so on. Of course, for parts which aren't produced yet, the prices is much higher, but how higher depend on a lot of factors (whether the part exists but not in that color, whether the parts fit well in the system, and so on). Design teams may also want to bargain with other teams to have them support the cost development of a new part. Licensed themes may have a different cost structure because the licensees are sometimes willing to pay for a new part if it makes the model more realistic (most good hairdos come from licenses nowadays).

Once the designer has a model ready (it'll undergo quite a few tweaks along the way, of course), they'll hand it to another team which will be responsible for making sure the model can be built by kids, and possibly tweak it some more to make the instructions clearer (ever noticed why some hidden bricks have sometimes unexpected colors?). These guys do use computers, and they'll make the instructions as well; but in the meantime the designers are busy on their next model.
> 19 votes

# Answer
I thoroughly enjoyed National Geographic's documentary - Megafactories - LEGO:

> It's one of the most popular construction toys in the world. In the age of unprecedented competition for their attention - from videogames to TVs to countless activities - children still spend over 5 billion hours a year playing with LEGO bricks. But building simple modular toys with interlocking bricks is a lot more complex than it seems. Their most popular set - the police station - is completely redesigned every few years to keep up with the times. From R&D and engineering to robotic assembly lines and the most fickle test market on the planet, Mega Factories: LEGO takes you behind the scenes as a real life police station turns into a playground for the imagination.
> 10 votes

# Answer
There are a series of youtube videos about LEGO Cars set design process. They are kinda simplified and targeted at kids, but still have some good insights in process. First video can be found here.

Playlist of all 6 videos somebody have assembled.
> 6 votes

# Answer
It is actually super complex. They first start by tinkering, when they have an idea. Then they start building. When they have the object built, they rebuild it step by step, gluing each step to a board. Then a device scans the boards for changes, makes the instructions, and calculates part count. Or at least that is how they used do it.

How do I know this? I read it in a book by 2 former Lego designers. Called Forbidden Lego, you can look it up on Amazon and preview the pages where it has the info.
> 0 votes

# Answer
This is what the official website describes:

> Our designers in Denmark create and test new LEGO® sets, toys and themes every day. We work hard to make sure our toys are surprising, fun and can be passed down for generations!
>
> First, we come up with the idea for an exciting new theme, like LEGO® Elves, or a new series within an existing theme, like LEGO® City Volcano Explorers. Then the design team works on coming up with different sized sets with loads of cool features that will appeal to a wide range of LEGO® fans.
>
> Once they’ve figured out what kind of sets are the right ones, they’ll build those ideas using existing pieces, and sometimes design new LEGO® pieces when necessary. We do lots of testing to make sure the sets are fun to build and play with and can stay together when they’re flying or driving around.
>
> Then, it’s on to designing the instructions, working out what sort of boxes the sets will need to go in, and determining what pictures will be on the packaging. Finally, we ship the finished sets off to all the stores!

https://www.lego.com/en-us/service/help/fun-for-fans/more-about-us/how-we-design-lego-sets-408100000008835
> 0 votes

# Answer
> Do the designers model new sets on a computer which then figures out pieces and instructions or do they do build and tweak until things seem just right?

As I understand it, their modern process is a mix of both real-life and digital building. Building a physical model is important for testing durability and such, while digital building is helpful for quickly testing different color schemes.

For digital building, LEGO uses their own in-house Easy Builder Tool which is an Autodesk Maya plugin. From what I understand, LEGO Digital Designer is somewhat based on this tool, except it doesn't use Maya and the parts have reduced resolution.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: sets, design
---


title: EV3 brick Bluetooth connection error

text:
# Question
Title: EV3 brick Bluetooth connection error
I’m unable to pair the ev3 brick to our iPad mini. Both see each other but I keep getting this error on the ipad, Connection Unsuccessful, make sure ev3 is turned on and in range. And the ev3 shows a screen...

WiFi I turned off on both and on the ev3 Bluetooth is turned on along with visibility. I’ve played around with checking and unchecking iPod/iPad/ etc box.

They paired before but we were experiencing inconsistencies with the brick while running programs and it was advised to try updating the brick so I did and now they are not pairing.

What should I do?

# Answer
> 4 votes
I was experiencing similar problem with my Windows PC and EV3 brick.

Restart bluetooth on both, PC/Mac and EV3.

Do NOT pair from the brick. Begin pairing from the EV3 Mindstorm App on your PC/Mac.

It should pair and work as expected.

# Answer
> 0 votes
I'm experiencing this kind of problem a lot recently.

What helps me when I'm completely stuck: Re-Install the newest firmware (1.09H/E/D).

After this update restart the EV3, close all Apps (shut them down, not switching to Home) and try the connection again.

This helps me in most cases.

# Answer
> 0 votes
I was running into a similar issue - iPad and EV3 could see each other, but got the "Connection unsuccessful..." error message.

The EV3 and iPad had paired previously, and then I updated the EV3 firmware. To resolve the issue, I went to the iPad's Settings-\>Bluetooth and found the EV3 brick listed.

I clicked on the information icon (blue i in a circle) and chose "Forget This Device". I was able to then repair from inside the EV3 app.

---
Tags: ev3, mindstorms, software
---


# Question
Title: How to distinguish official LEGO mini movies from non-official movies?
My sons (7 and 4.5 years old) love watching LEGO city mini movies on YouTube.

They love watching all kinds of LEGO city mini movies, such as:

**Arctic Explorers**

**The Escape From Prison Island**

**Mountain Police Madness**

**Gold Mine Grief**

and many others...

We also bought them some of the sets featured in these mini movies.

The problem is that sometimes, when I search YouTube for LEGO city mini movies, some of the results shown are none official movies. While some are harmless movies of people showing how they build their LEGO sets, some are not appropriate for young children.

One time we accidentally started watching a LEGO movie featuring some arctic explorers that encounter a frozen alien. It turned out to be an unofficial movie, which was too scary for our kids. We had to stop in the middle, and make up an alternative story to what happened on that movie.

My question is how can I reliably tell apart official LEGO city mini movies (all of which seem child friendly) from non-official movies.

Is there some YouTube search that will only return official movies? Is there some listing with links to all the official movies?

# Answer
Hello Eran's family! How are you all doing today?

Please try these methods instead:

1. ***The Publisher's Home Page*** \- DON'T go directly to the search box to search the term "*LEGO city mini movies*", but instead just pull up one of your official *LEGO* mini movies and click on the name of the person who published the video to *YouTube*.

In this case it would be "*LEGO*". So, clicking on the content creator's name will lead you to that publisher's homepage and everything they've posted to *YT*, such as *Playlists*, *Videos*, *Community* chit-chats, etc...
Now, anything not created by this publisher, again *LEGO*, will not be on their homepage.
2. ***Please Show Me More*** \- So, right below the video publisher's name and date of publication there is a video description.

In this description field the publisher sometimes has links, or if its a song, the song's written lyrics. Now, if the description field gets too long and wordy, YT will cut it off after a certain length, and hide the rest behind the "***SHOW MORE***" link.

So, try the *SHOW MORE* link to see if there's further info to more official content.
3. ***YouTube Restricted Mode On/Off***. You can turn this on in *YouTube* settings to try to filter videos with potentially mature content, but note: Filters are not 100% accurate.

***Phone App - Restricted Mode On/Off***

1. Open *YouTube* app.
2. Tap 3 dots in the top right of screen.
3. Look for gray "Gear Cog" to access "settings".
4. In settings, look for "Restricted Mode Filtering".
5. Choose either "Don't Filter" or "Strict". Done.

***Desktop computer - Restricted Mode On/Off:***

1. Click 3 gray "parallel lines" next to YouTube logo to open side menu.
2. Scroll down/look for gray "Gear Cog" to access "settings".
3. Scroll down to the very bottom of page look for "Restricted Mode". Click on it to access more of the page.
4. Scroll down some more. Toggle it "on" or "off".
5. Click "Save". Done.
> 5 votes

---
Tags: software, lego-group, city, safety, animation
---


# Question
Title: What minifig and set is this shirt from?
I’ve googled trying to figure out where this piece came from but I have no idea.

Please help me figure out what minifigure this shirt from? Also, if it’s from a larger set.

# Answer
This torso belongs to Deadshot as he appears in 76053 Gotham City Cycle Chase.
> 6 votes

---
Tags: part-identification, set-identification, minifigure-identification
---


# Question
Title: My 8880 Super Car: Quality criteria for potential buyers?
A couple of years ago I bought a used 8880 Super Car for around 50 Euros. I thought it was an exceptional bargain but now I am not so sure any more. I want to sell the set and want to avoid a disappointed buyer. The picture below shows the most obvious show-stoppers: stickers, prints and yellowing of the wheels. The stickers are more or less OK, headlight prints are very good. The round plate is only a "reference white" for comparison. There is some yellowing on the wheels, but it is moderate, same for the gear plate.

My question is: What else would you as potential buyers of this set consider important, before bidding?

# Answer
> 6 votes
First of all, let me congratulate you, that was indeed an amazing deal you made back then. This 8880 seems to be near mint condition, and should fetch you a nice return should you choose to sell it.

Speaking both as an experienced buyer of used LEGO sets as well as an owner of an used 8880, my personal priority list of criteria is the following:

1. **Completeness**: are all pieces present, are they the correct ones (color, part design, prints, stickers)?
2. **Physical state of the pieces**: are the rubber parts cracked or still flexible, do the bricks have scratches, teeth marks, scribbles, or ...gasp... maybe even *glue* on them?
3. **State of the prints**: were they preserved in a good condition, or have they chipped, faded, discolored, etc?
4. **State of the stickers**: are they even applied at all or still on the sticker sheet, if applied then how precisely, did they fade, discolor, crack or chip?
    41. **For STOMPs** (STicker Over Multiple Pieces): were they applied correctly, were any torn or were they cut neatly, is there maybe dirt or dust on the strip of sticker exposed between two pieces?
5. **Instruction sheet(s)**: are they present, in what condition: earmarks, tears, binding, have they been doodled upon, have they faded or discolored?
6. **Box**: Is it present, does it show any damage due to storage, water, mold, shipping, was it opened carefully or torn open?
7. *(Disclaimer: This criteria is actually a lot more important than many above but it can almost never be known or judged before buying.)* **Shipping**: Does the set ship with adequate packaging that ensures no pieces get lost in transit (I have received boxes that had holes in them large enough for smaller pieces to fall through), does the seller use appropriate amounts of packaging material to ensure the pieces don't get scratched up too much during transit?

Note again, these are MY PERSONAL priorities, and thus reflect my attitude which priorizes function over looks, over collectability. Other possible buyers might not care for the exact design of a half-bush or the correct generation of a 8T gear, but might place more emphasis on the stickers or the box for example.

# Answer
> 9 votes
Besides the obvious quality checks, something that is quite important to me when buying second hand: in what state of assembly will the set be shipped?

Unless it's a set I'm desperately searching, I will almost certainly forego bidding if the set appears to be shipped entirely assembled.

Partially disassembled is even worse in my opinion.

Also not acceptable is the set entirely disassembled but all pieces thrown together, I believe this causes scratches on the pieces and makes it easy to have pieces missing (with the mistake possibly happening on my end while resorting the pieces).

Ideally the set is shipped entirely disassembled and the pieces sorted in zip-lock bags in a logical way: large pieces with large pieces, smaller with smaller... In such a manner that it's easy to check for completeness and I'll have fun rebuilding the set.

Problem is that the shipping manner is seldom described in any online advertisement, one needs to ask for this...

---
Tags: shopping, quality
---


# Question
Title: Why did LEGO switch the direction of flag elements in 2008?
Having just gotten back into LEGO this year, I noticed that the flags in my new sets are mirrored from all the flags I used to have. On the left is a green flag from 4162 FreeStyle Multibox from 1995, and on the right is a red flag from 10404 Ocean's Bottom from this year — notice that they flow in opposite directions:

According to BrickLink, this change was made in 2008, and the original mold stopped appearing in sets in 2010.

What was the reason for this change?

# Answer
> 11 votes
I asked them over chat and the answer was :

> There's no a special reason, it's due to the mold. I know, it's not very romantic!

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Tags: piece-information, manufacturing
---


# Question
Title: Can you identify these (possibly) LEGO horses?
We got these old LEGO-compatible horses from the LEGO collection that used to belong to my wife's brothers (which means they are probably 20-30 years old). I'm wondering if they are genuine LEGO pieces.

If not, I wonder what brand are they.

Either way, I wonder which set, if any, they belonged to.

I think there was another black horse, which I couldn't find, and some or all of them also had a brown saddle part.

EDIT:

I managed to take a good photo of the stamp on the black horse, so it's definitely genuine LEGO.

# Answer
> 14 votes
Those horses look like legit LEGO-brand horses.

Specifically:

**White Horse with Black Eyes, White Pupils and Dark Orange Bridle Pattern**: 4493c01pb04

**Black Horse with Black Eyes Circled with White, Brown Bridle Pattern**: 4493c01pb02

In order to be extra sure they are genuine LEGO, look for the "LEGO" stamp on the inside of the hollow studs on their back where the saddle goes (it's a little hard to see).

These horses each came in a fair number of sets. Check the BrickLink links for a list of possible sets. If you are sure they both came in the same set, these are the sets both came in:

# Answer
> 9 votes
They are:

LEGO Animal Minifigure - WHITE HORSE

and

Horse (Black) - LEGO Animal Minifigure

But if it does not have the logo or part ID then it must be a copycat.

Refer this post for real LEGO identification help:

General guidelines to identify real Lego pieces from fake or copy?

# Answer
> 4 votes
Since you are asking for a set too, I remember playing with this sort of horse long ago.

Mine was the horse of a knight, like in this set.

# Answer
> 4 votes
I owned these two medieval castle sets as a child. Both came with different coloured horses (white, brown and black).

There are also a number of knight sets containing horses, for example this one.

---
Tags: part-identification, set-identification
---


# Question
Title: What's the best way to start an 8 year old on Lego Technic building?
I'm a grandpa trying to start my 8 year old grandson in LEGO Technic building. I am particularly interested in mechanical parts building and motorization. He already loves LEGO and attends after school and summer classes at school which focus on LEGO and coding.

Piecemeal I purchased all LEGO motors along with a bag of assorted bricks (I just don't understand if there is a difference between so called original bricks and LEGO Technic pieces). I also bought Crazy Action Contraptions for him, which seemed to me to be the most elementary.

I apologize to you pros out there, but I'm such a novice that I had to ask my question this way.

# Answer
The best way would definitely be to appeal to his already existing preferences and show him how LEGO Technic can integrate into that or even enhance that.

Does he like cars? Let's build a simple car with him, later add a steering system, and still later a motor for driving.

Does he like robots? Offer to build a robot, with gears to move the arms, legs, head, etc. These can be motorized later as well.

The same can be done with planes, boats, farm machinery, animals, almost anything he might fancy.

You mention Crazy Action Contraptions, you could sit down with him and build some of the models included. Along this process you'd be able to gauge his interests both by area (i.e. does he like the Speedster or the Grabber more) and by general attitude (does he even like the whole building, or is he just waiting for you to finish it so he can play, or does he even care about it at all).

As alluded to in the last sentence, you should be mentally prepared for the possibility that you might not be successful, as he might not be interested in the topic. Don't take this personally, we all have different interests and forcing things usually don't turn out well.

> just don't understand if there is a difference between so called original bricks and Lego Technic pieces

This sentence hints at your own inexperience regarding the subject, maybe in this case you can approach the topic as a common learning process, where you both venture out to explore the world of LEGO Technic. Alternatively, you could get familiar with the terminology, basic building techniques and principles so that you can coach him. Either approach is viable, they just require different attitudes and preparations - you can switch between them however, if the need arises.
> 6 votes

# Answer
Instead of providing a pile of assorted Technic bricks and motors, I would (and already did) rather start with medium-sized sets. This guarantees success and shows how everything fits together nicely. I am doing this with regular LEGO sets and my children are already demanding larger and larger sets. MOCs (i.e. "My Own Creations") can follow later.
> 6 votes

# Answer
I'm just going down this route with my 7 year old.

The old style primary colour gears (G9 / G15 / G21) have proved to be better for little fingers and more engaging than the "standard" technic gears, if you can get hold of them in sufficient quantity.

Of course, some of the model instructions we've followed have required a little adapting, but that's all part of the fun.
> 5 votes

---
Tags: technic, motor
---


# Question
Title: How to ship a LEGO sculpture to a contest?
I am planning to participate in an art contest that allows paintings, sculptures, or video clips. I have a LEGO sculpture in mind that would fit the idea of the contest, but it would have to be shipped to the jurors. The contest itself is not about LEGO at all, so I have no idea how they will react to a LEGO set. I just want to use it as a medium to convey my message.

The sculpture would be a diorama with a small figure (not a minifig) and some larger figures. The basic question is: How can the sculpture be delivered to the contest in one piece? I can think of some options:

1. **Glue**: Since the figures would stand in the diorama, the glueing area would be quite small, breaking is likely to happen.
2. **Sturdy build**, use Technic connections: Having the figures attached to the sculpture with lift arms would look weird and would probably decrease artistic value.
3. **Partly disassemble** the sculpture and give instructions for final assembly to the contest committee.

Number 3 is my favourite solution. However, is it acceptable for a contest to deliver a partly assembled sculpture?? I would wrap each figure separately and deliver also photographs/descriptions of the final arrangement.

Do you have experience with shipping sculptures and contests? What is the most feasible approach? Are there other considerations?

**EDIT:** After Mołot's comment I contacted the contest committee. They were very kind, and obviously, it is no problem to submit half-assembled work (in this case). Lesson learned: Ask!

# Answer
> 2 votes
As @Mołot commented, first ask the contest committee whether they have specific rules. In general though, shipping in chunks is common, ideally few pieces that are simple and straightforward to attach.

Rigid, sturdy builds are obviously going to stand up better to the travails of shipping, so try to avoid spindly construction. Follow good mechanical engineering principles, and if you can use technics for internal support, it may be very useful.

Glue also helps - yes, it's a bit more permanent, but for this type of production, you want that.

Additionally, shipping with "popcorn" pieces densely packed really helps prevent damage. Be aware that whoever unpacks it may be less keen :-)

---
Tags: building, packaging, transport
---


# Question
Title: Smallest rubber wheel that can be turned by a technic axle
What the smallest rubber wheels that can be turned by a Technic axle?

This is what I have so far

Wheel Full Rubber Balloon with Axle hole #4288

Background: I'm building a GBC and I want to push the balls at speed across an open area. I plan to hide small spinning wheels in the opening they go through and assume that rubber tyres are the best solution.

# Answer
I think the smallest one in diameter is the tire 3641

with the bush 4265c.

Alternatively, you can use the tire 3139

which has a smooth surface and also compatible (but a little bit loosely) with the same bush.
> 9 votes

# Answer
While it is technically not a rubber wheel, you can use an axle with a half-bush and with an additional rubber band to provide grip. Tensioning the band between two such axles will form a short conveyor belt with a rubbery surface, which could be used for transporting balls when surrounded by appropriate elements to form a channel:

(the black lines are axles, the grey ovals are half-bushes, the red freehand-circle is a rubber band and the round spotty ugliness is supposed to be my rendition of a LEGO football)
> 3 votes

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Tags: technic, piece-information, wheel
---


# Question
Title: How can I have EV3 Commander App continue running the motor when I release the slider?
I'd like to control a drawing robot that I am building with EV3 Commander App.

The problem is that EV3 Commander App stops the motor as soon as I release the slider.

Is there an option with EV3 Commander App that allows me to set the speed of a motor such that I don't have to keep my finger on the slider - and keep running when I release it?

# Answer
> 1 votes
The commander app is very limited in it's capabilities. Unfortunately it is not possible to control your own program with the commander app.

I have tried all of the built-in EV3 Commander control pads to see if any of them were suitable. The closest thing I could find to a solution would be to use the 'EV3RSTORM' control pad.

The 'Go', 'Back', 'Left' and 'Right' buttons keep all the motors turned on permanently unless you press stop of change directions. Unfortunately you won't be able to change the variable speed of the motors but you could change the fixed speed with gears.

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Tags: ev3, commander
---


# Question
Title: How I can program a solar panel heliostat?
I want to make a program for an EV3 solar heliostat.

It consists of two motors and a color sensor. I want it to follow the light. The station is fixed.

EV3SolarStation pdf

# Answer
As far as I see, you have two possible ways of accomplishing this, given that you have already built an Altazimuth mount or any other two-dimension mount from the two motors that can hold the color sensor and point it in any direction.

## Calculation

This is the harder way but it grants neater results. It involves taking a precise measurement of the device's location and orientation, setting up a known orientation for both motors as zero, and porting a known solar-tracking algorithm to the EV3 (like this or this). The resulting setup then must not be shut down, moved or rotated since the control of the motors is done by an algorithm which only takes into account the starting conditions (spatial and temporal) and the elapsed time. The accuracy of the EV3 internal clock may also factor into the precision if the project is to be left running for a long time. As an added bonus, you don't need the color sensor at all.

## Using iterative methods

This approach requires a lot less intial setup but offers a not-so polished end result. The basic premise is using the color sensor to get an estimation of the amount of the light incoming from the current direction, then comparing it with the measurement(s) from some other direction(s), finally turning toward the higher value.

There are two problems to be solved here: first, the current position of the Sun (or its equivalent if you are indoors) must be found among all possible orientations. This is an example of the mathematical operation known as finding the global maxima of a two-dimensional function on a constrained range, where the two input dimensions are the altitude and the azimuth and the output is the measured amount of light coming from the given direction.

Then, the software must account for the inevitable changes due to the relative movement of the Sun in the sky. Since you have chosen this way and not the first (**Calculation**), you can not know in advance which direction the Sun will move in. So you can only attempt to find it again after a set amount of time or after the measured brightness drops to (or by) a specified amount.

There are countless ways this approach can be fine-tuned, depending on the precision of the motors, the precision, update rate and measuring range of the sensor, the amount of location and orientation information known beforehand, the required precision of the resulting system, the allowed complexity of the software, etc.

The most basic and a **very** ineffective system would consist of the following pseudocode:

```
repeat forever:
    oldBrightness = read(colorSensor)
    movementXAxis = getRandom(-10, 10) // decide on a random direction to turn to
    movementYAxis = getRandom(-10, 10)
    moveXAxis(movementXAxis)           // turn to the new direction
    moveYAxis(movementYAxis)
    newBrightness = read(colorSensor)
    if(newBrightness < oldBrightness)  // if the new direction is worse than the old
        moveXAxis(-movementXAxis)      // then turn back to the old direction
        moveYAxis(-movementYAxis)
    wait(someTime)                     // bask in the sun for a while :)

```

This of course can be updated with more advanced logic, including but not limited to

* paying attention to the amount of difference between the old and new measurements
* moving first in larger steps to get a coarse direction and then refine it further with smaller steps
* staying pointed in a direction longer if the brightness is higher there
* moving continuously in one direction while the brightness is increasing and stopping when it starts to fall
* storing directions and corresponding measurements to create a 2D function which can be analysed using mathematical methods to find the best result
* storing historical data to predict and account for changes in the long run
* (but by now you are practically in the complexity region of the **Calculation**-way)
* etc.

Consult the relevant Wikipedia page for some advanced reading material and as a starting point if you are interested in learning more about the applicable algorithms.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: ev3, programming
---


title: Help Identifying Mega Bloks Parts

text:
# Question
Title: Help Identifying Mega Bloks Parts
I've bought a storage unit, and truly have no idea what these *Mega Bloks* are a part of.

There are two blue domes, two green domes, and a bunch of what looks like tracks/road pieces.

# Answer
**Brand**: *MEGA BLOKS*.

**Set Theme**: *Planetoids*.

**Set Name**: *LX-009 City*.

**Year**: *1997*.

**BIG THANKS** to *Gnovice* for the positive I.D. on the track piece, which proved it was at least from the *MEGA BLOKS* line, but just in a different color.

* Color discrepancy note: I think the *Original Poster's* camera flash turned the darker purple color of the pieces into a blueish hue.
> 5 votes

# Answer
Those track pieces appear to resemble in shape (if not in color) the track pieces in set 9801 Build & Race Speedway:

No idea about the "domes". Could they be lids to containers?
> 4 votes

---
Tags: part-identification, clone-brands
---


title: My 9398 crawler going in reverse way

text:
# Question
Title: My 9398 crawler going in reverse way
I built 9398 crawler set and everything seemed OK.

However, when I moved the RC tumbler up, the crawler went back, and when I moved it down, the crawler went forward.

On the battery box I saw tumbler and changed its position, but nothing changed. I also changed the order of connection motors to box, which also didn't help.

P.S. Turns work fine.

# Answer
> 7 votes
From the power functions FAQ:

> 7. Why does my Power Functions model drive backward when I want it to run forward? You can change the direction your model runs by flipping the small black switches located on each side of the channel selector of your IR Remote Control.

# Answer
> 0 votes
From the sounds of it, you've already tried the little black switch on your remote, and that didn't fix things. I've had the same problem with PF remotes in the past, where one of those switches just stops working. Try unplugging the motors connected to the IR receiver, and swapping which port they connect to. Then see if the toggling works on the other side of the remote.

If the remote is at fault, try contacting LEGO customer service.

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Tags: technic, remote-control
---


# Question
Title: General guidelines to identify real LEGO pieces from fake or copy?
I see a lot of questions here about if a certain piece is really LEGO or not and this made me wonder if there is any guideline to follow to identify real LEGO piece from the duplicate or fake one?

I checked the site and found this question but it's not what I am asking for.

# Answer
The most obvious sign is the LEGO mark present on each stud\*. I have yet to learn of any single copycat company that would go through the legal and technical trouble required to mold these onto every stud of every piece in a consistent fashion.

If the piece has no studs to check or the markings are present and you still have doubts you can take a suitably strong light and magnifying lens and look for a trademark or a 4-5 digit part ID. This on the right side is a very obviously visible example, others might be much smaller and better hidden. A missing ID would obviously indicate a fake piece. But even if it is present you can cross-check the existing LEGO piece databases to see if the part ID does indeed represent the part you have.

Should a bootleg company go to the lengths to correctly add all such markings, you can still take a known genuine part of the same design and check for any differences in dimensions. LEGO has notoriously tight tolerances when it comes to precise size. You can check the material as well, fakes could have different weight, sheen, flexibility, clutch power or could feel different to the touch.

And in the unthinkable case when a competitor manages to get all markings, dimension and material properties right, can evade all inherent lawsuits and their prices are not egregiously high then they maybe deserve to be used as "real" LEGO pieces :)

But only then ;)

Sidenote: Old LEGO jewels (diamonds) don't have any ID or trademark on them, the newer ones do have both though.

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\*: On 2020-08-30 BrickFinder published an article about chinese fake LEGO bricks being found "in the wild" with *almost* perfect LEGO lettering on their studs. These have nearly imperceptable differences in the lettering, the gloss and colour of the bricks and their dimensions.
> 14 votes

# Answer
I can usually just tell by the color / sheen of the bricks in question, LEGO puts a lot of effort into producing consistency in their parts.

zovits mentioned a lot of good points, but there is one thing I'd add that I have noticed as of late while sorting out bulk lots of bricks: Some companies that are truly attempting to make counterfeit LEGO (as opposed to mega-blocs who are just compatible) have gotten close to the right shapes and colors, but are still falling short when it comes to the ABS recipe. I have found that 'FLEGO' (my term for fake LEGO) is more brittle and shatters when subject to forces that LEGO has no problem with.

For example, I recently had a mini-fig torso that I tried to pull the arms off of, and both completely shattered. Real LEGO mini-figures you can pull the arms off of as much as you want, with little effect on the parts. Older torsos will sometimes develop a waist to armpit crack, I suspect this is more a result of age than excessive force.

I suspect that their ABS formula is producing harder, and more brittle bricks that will break rather than bend. I found several bricks in the same lot that were completely shattered, with rather sharp edges. This is something I have never seen in real LEGO bricks.
> 6 votes

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Tags: part-identification, set-identification, clone-brands
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# Question
Title: What is this heavy red LEGO piece with no obvious connectors?
I got a bulk box of LEGO on eBay and this was in it. It has the LEGO logo at either end but the pegs at the bottom don’t connect to anything. It’s heavy, like a battery, but no connectors and it doesn’t come apart. It doesn’t appear to be magnetic. Any ideas?

# Answer
It's a Boat Keel Weighted 8 x 2 x 4.
> 13 votes

# Answer
I second Henrik's answer: I immediately recognize this part of this boat I used to play in my bath a lot with when I was a kid:
> 3 votes

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Tags: part-identification, boat
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# Question
Title: Where can I find documentation on the LEGO Wireless Protocol for Powered Up devices?
LEGO BOOST and LEGO Powered Up Smart Hubs use Bluetooth Low Energy to communicate to apps. Where can I find documentation on the communication protocol so that I can build my own app for these devices?

# Answer
LEGO calls this communication protocol the "LEGO Wireless Protocol" (LWP). The documentation is publicly available at https://lego.github.io/lego-ble-wireless-protocol-docs/.

There is also a GitHub repository that provides the source of this website at https://github.com/LEGO/lego-ble-wireless-protocol-docs. Because of this, it seems reasonable to expect this documentation to evolve over time.
> 11 votes

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Tags: programming, powered-up, boost
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# Question
Title: Is this non-disassemblable LEGO instruction step real?
I've seen this image shared a few times around the internet as an example of a LEGO instruction step that assembles pieces in such a way that they cannot be disassembled (at-least not without some serious strain on the parts).

If one were to insert that Technic axle into that hole, it would sit flush inside holding the other red piece in place, and since the black piece wraps around the back, it would not be possible to slide it off the axle without some substantial bending.

Trying to find the source of the image has proven difficult, and those who share it don't ever seem to include the source of the image.

Is this from a real LEGO set's instruction, or is it faked?

# Answer
It turns out it is real, just not from a single set itself, but from the official instructions for a combo-model between Exo-Force models 7700-1: Stealth Hunter and 7701-1: Grand Titan to make Mountain Warrior.

You can find the pictured step on page 26 of the instructions.
> 7 votes

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Tags: set-identification, instructions, disassembly
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