Today we got to know the first decent quality images for the upcoming 2H2012 LEGO Technic sets.
Click on the images below to see them in full resolution size.
9393 - Tractor
9396 - Helicopter
Guess we have already dug enough on this one before...
However realize it becomes clear from the arrows in the box, that we're going to get pitch control on the main rotor blades.

Just noticed also the photos show the old style for the 'Technic Liftarm Triangle Thin', instead of the new one.
Were these finished images that old, considering the new type was already available with the 1H sets.

9398 - 4x4 Crawler
And now the star from 2012.

We come to see finally which are the official names for the new PF motors and where each one comes, without margin for doubt.
So we have:
- PF-Servo Motor: There is one of it in the Crawler and it might be the one in the center of the model. So we get one for steering both front and rear axis.
According to previous descriptions from those who have seen it, it should allow an axle to pass through, or at least allow to connect two axles - one in the front and another from the back!?
Honestly I prefer to wait and see it, before entering into more considerations, because the image still suggests several possibilities.
Looking at the connection head, it looks to have a 3x5 oblong shape with multiple connections, also in orthogonal axis. It makes me also think it might be a strong servo.
It remains to know whether it is a Full CW / Full CCW, or it supports PWM control for intermediate positions. And whether it implements return to center, or not?
Nevertheless with the IR remote used in this model, here it might behave like full CW / CCW mode.
- PF-L Motor: Well, finally the missing 'L' in the PF motors range.
These might go to the front and rear axis, to drive the Crawler and do all the heavy work!
Guess they will run at moderate speed, but with high torque. Although I don't see a significant internal planetary reduction gearing fitting inside this...
The several pin connections available, from orthogonal axis (very welcomed) also suggest a strong motor that needs steady fixation anchors.
Just looking to put my hands on, to dissipate all doubts I still have about these...
It is also good to see the 36T Double Bevel, returning into a couple of new Technic sets.

20 comments:
Would return to center steering be a good idea in a model that has it's steering/suspension changing in so many different ways? Seems like there would be constant strain on the return springs... It makes sense on flat ground, but if one wheel is being obstructed by an obstacle, to me I would rather have full control over the steering rather than the springs trying to pull back when they can't...
I also wish that Copter had the Large #17 and #18 panels in yellow instead of red with a yellow sticker... Those are the only ones missing to complete the entire set of yellow panles...
Just noticed that tractor has the old style thin triangle as well...
Well, at least I doubt you will have independent control of the front and rear axis steering. So the full steering control is somewhat compromised.
Wohooo! really excited about these 2 new kind of motors. Can't wait!!!
We also need a "small" motor for small steering projects etc! NEED IT BAD!!!
The old Technic triangle may be used for aesthetic reasons. Recently I built the 8110 Unimog which had both versions in it. The old ones were used for the winch in front...
In the meantime LEGO kills the Tachikoma ---> http://lego.cuusoo.com/ideas/view/13519
@Conchas - you have to write about it!
Hence both L-motors have to act on one channel, they may not exceed the power consumption of the M-motors? (!)
Given their shape I conclude they must have at least very strong magnets inside and through this a much higher energy efficiency.
Guess Philo didn't harp on the same string lately. :-)
@Karol
I'll write something. Just waiting for mahj to finalize the new models and supporting media.
@Menno: That would be a good thing indeed ;)
I am glad to see the new L motors. I am still looking for some more information on the servo as it may not be as helpful I would like, but I am cautiously optimistic.
What are the triangle parts in front of the 9393 tractor?
@Stephan
These.
The excitement for the crawler set rests entirely on the motors. The L-motor better be very fast and the servo motor better have some level of proportional control with electic return to centre (like a real servo).
Look here for the other model (truck)
http://smashing-bricks.com/files/2012/05/9398-5.jpg
Ya, there are a couple of other images now.
Will write a new post once back at home. :P
I like how the Tractor looks like a simplified version of the 8284, with the basic functionality retained. I hope, like with its bigger ancestor, that the attachment can be disengaged from the wheels when not in use. What I really hate is the shape of the headlights: totally inappropriate for this kind of vehicle! Regarding the B-model, I applaud the way they managed to make a cylinder engine without using cylinder engine elements, a first since 1989!
About the Helicopter, it is still by far my favourite 2H2012 set. Those rotor blades (both main and tail) are beautiful! I can't wait to see the blade pitch mechanism working.
As for the Crawler, I still am interested in it only for the new motors. Like Crowkillers said, for this kind of slow, precision-oriented vehicle, return-to-centre steering doesn't make much sense. Still, it's nice that the servo has it, for more racing-oriented MOC's (and, who knows, future sets).
Oh, and I forgot: the Helicopter's B-model looks interesting too. The blades on the rotors, like on the A-model, have links connected to it, which suggests they too can be pitched. Nice. What isn't very realistic is the presence of a tail rotor... maybe it's there for the same reason as the front winch on the 9395's B-model: since the elements are already available, why not putting them on the model and make it more playable?
From the servo image, I fell the axle won't connect to the center hole but to the 2nd one from the bottom, 4th from the top.
This seems also consistent with the story that it goes through the servo as wee see the motor offset to the upper side on the image.
Also more likely if we think on the construction of RC servos.
Post a Comment