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1988
The 3rd Generation Sets |
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1988 EU Technic catalog: 92K |
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5 new sets were released, including the 3rd major auto chassis. Lego also updated the packaging with a new box and manual design showing a CAD drawing on a dark blue background. This design would serve as the basis for Technic packaging for the next 10 years. There were several new elements introduced in 1988, such as the propeller assembly and steering arm. Model designs were becoming more complex and realistic and 1988 marked the beginning of ultra-specialized elements. Rather than construct the functional equivalent out of more standard elements, Designers began to use these specialized elements to increase the functionality with compact assemblies. |
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US patent 5.071,384: 49K |
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The steering gear: |
The new steering gear assembly is a good illustration of these new highly specialized elements. The assembly consisted of a rounded plate with a toothed bracket, a rack/steering rod and a pinion holder. The pinion holder would engage the teeth of the bracket, allowing it it remain fixed in various positions. Because the rack had a rounded profile the pinion could rotate around it and remain engaged. This same functionality would require a much bulkier assembly if constructed out of separate elements. This steering gear has served as the based of steering, especially in small models, to the present day. |
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The 8855 Prop Plane: |
This was the first Technic airplane and still stands as their best.
By this time Technic sets had mostly lost their block-like construction
and were starting to become quite realistic in appearance. The design of the prop plane,
especially of the wings and rudder, look like a cutaway of a real plane. This
technique would become the staple of 3rd generation set design.
The joystick in the cockpit realistically controlled the ailerons and rudder through a series of cross axles
and universal joints. The final result is a model that captured the prototype
in both form and function. It is perhaps the most underrated Technic set ever. |
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1988 sets: |
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