Practical LEGO Technics: Bring Your LEGO Creations to Life (Technology in Action)

You already know you can create amazing things with LEGO, but did you know you can also make vehicles that roll and model plans that include landing gear and flaps that actually extend and retract? You can even make functional robots without getting into Mindstorms and programming. In PracticalLEGO Technics, Mark Rollins shows you how to use LEGO and Power Functions components like motors and remote controls to create motorized cars, all terrain vehicles, vehicle steering, construction equipment such as cranes and forklifts, airplanes. All-in-all, you'll learn to create a wide variety of fun, unique LEGO creations.

LEGO Technic is similar to Mindstorms in that you can create all sorts of cool vehicles and gadgets. But unlike Mindstorms, you don't have to learn programming. Power Functions allows you to add motors, remote control, and battery boxes to your LEGO projects, no programming required. And while you could just build a LEGO Technic gadget from a boxed set, with PracticalLEGO Technics, you'll learn the hows and whys of Technic project design, and pick up ideas for your own custom projects.

Please note: The print version of this title is in black & white; the ebook is full color. You can download color images from the book at http://www.apress.com/9781430246114

• Covers basic design for motorized vehicles that run and steer.
• Shows how to build headlights and more using the Power Functions Light Kit.
• Provides suspension design for use in building all-terrain vehicles.
• Helps you build construction equipment, including a crane and forklift.

What you’ll learn

• Put a motor on any LEGO vehicle to bring it to life; create wheels that turn and landing gear that extends and retracts.
• Build a suspension system and steering mechanism for proper vehicle control.
• Add working lights, such as headlights and taillights, to your Technic projects
• Design LEGO vehicles that look and work like real construction vehicles, including cranes and forklifts.
• Build an airplane, complete with retractable landing gear.

Who this book is for

Practical LEGO Technics is the perfect book for LEGO and building enthusiasts of every age and experience level who want to learn how to build creations with LEGO Technic.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Getting Started With LEGO Technic                       

Chapter 2: Creating a Motorized LEGO Technic Vehicle            

Chapter 3: Steering and Controlling Your LEGO Technic Creation            

Chapter 4: Light it Up With LEGO Lights!            

Chapter 5: Creating a LEGO Technic Vehicle for all Terrains            

Chapter 6: Technic Contruction Vehicles and Equipment            

Chapter 7: LEGO Technic Aviation: Airplanes and Helicopters 

Chapter 8: Appendix: Parts List