[LDD and Bricks] Modular Starfighter

[dho7622u]

Pretty cool!

[vynsane]

Thanks, dho7622u!


Blacktron Transgressor StarDrive by vynsane, on Flickr

A Blacktron "Transgressor", engaging the StarDrive propulsion system.

Having salvaged the wreckage of an alien starship whose original point of origin could only possibly have been from outside the currently-explored galaxies, Tanuki Corp. was able to reverse-engineer the intricate propulsion system into the faster-than-light Tanuki Corp. StarDrive module for the Modular Starfighter System.

Immediately upon the first successful test flight, Blacktron agents, who had infiltrated the Tanuki Corp. structure as janitorial staff, commandeered the prototype and fled to a moon on the far edge of the galaxy, where the homing beacon was deactivated, and the trail grew cold.

Recently, starfighters baring the same configuration and cloaked in the black, yellow and translucent red markings indicative of the Blacktron consortium have made quick hit-and-run attacks on convoys, leveraging the faster-than-light capabilities of the StarDrive module. This craft has come to be referred to as the "Transgressor" class.

This configuration uses a modified version of the PLM-T1 weapon module and a newly-developed "StarDrive" module, heavily inspired by Nathan Proudlove's Retro Rocket.


Blacktron Transgressor Cruise by vynsane, on Flickr


Blacktron Transgressor StarDrive by vynsane, on Flickr

LDD Files

• StarDrive Modular Starfighter (color-coded modules)
• Blacktron Transgressor ("painted" version)
• StarDrive module

Modular Starfighter Fuselage Extender Collection by vynsane, on Flickr

Promotional image from the Tanuki Corp. Fall 7012 solar cycle catalog.

Feeling a bit inadequate among your peers in the high-traffic spacelanes? Think your performance could use a little enhancement? The Tanuki Corp. Modular Starfighter System Fuselage Extender modules can help!

Currently available in four, six, or eight standard units long, each module can add more power output at your fingertips (except for the hollow cargo container module). Most feature two rows of up to six module hardpoints on each side (two rows of two for four-long, up to two rows of six for eight-long) to allow multiple engine and weapon mounting options.

Order yours today!

The idea here is to add more mounting points for additional modules while lengthening the entire fuselage so certain modules can clear others. Adding two rows was another aspect, so you can add the same module at an angle, top and bottom. The back-story I created hints that each one is able to increase the power output of the entire craft - I guess they're additional batteries or small reactors or something, IDK.

LDD File

• Modular Starfighter Fuselage Extender Collection

[ncbarrett]

...
Having salvaged the wreckage of an alien starship whose original point of origin could only possibly have been from outside the currently-explored galaxies, Tanuki Corp. was able to reverse-engineer the intricate propulsion system into the faster-than-light Tanuki Corp. StarDrive module for the Modular Starfighter System....

Hope that Apophis didn't install a recall device on those engines!!!

[vynsane]

The alien craft's point of origin was from the other side of the universe, not Apophis' ;)

[hatcher]

...
Having salvaged the wreckage of an alien starship whose original point of origin could only possibly have been from outside the currently-explored galaxies, Tanuki Corp. was able to reverse-engineer the intricate propulsion system into the faster-than-light Tanuki Corp. StarDrive module for the Modular Starfighter System....

Hope that Apophis didn't install a recall device on those engines!!!

Ah, Stargate SG-1, one of my all time favourite shows. That was a particularly good episode. I've met Christopher Judge, who played Teal'c. He is absolutely hilarious, and loves to interact with fans.

[1brickshyofcrazy]

Man these concept class modular starfighters are all really nice...
Nicely done - hope to see them in actual brick-mat some day...

Also, is the LDD an easy tool to use? I've been meaning to get around to download and using it but haven't had time to...

I'd like to try those types of creations as well as modular buildings but maybe something less conventional like the ones Lego has and something difficult or historic.I am also looking at making them or bringing them brick-mat as well, eventually anyway...

Thanks for sharing....

[vynsane]

Thanks, 1brickshyofcrazy - yeah, as time and money permit, I will definitely bring these virtual designs to life in real bricks.

LDD, like any computer program, takes a bit of time to learn to use efficiently, but I find it very fully-featured. I like it more than other LEGO CAD programs available, mainly because the bricks 'stick' together, most of the freeware programs out there don't have an actual interlocking feature and the bricks just float in space adjacent to each other. This can lead to invalid or completely incorrect connections, phantom pieces, etc.

If you do download and install LDD, definitely take a look at the files I've released in this topic, my Swoosher Starfighter and my topic of LDD translations of the work of JonHall18. Playing around with those files will really give you a taste of how to work in LDD.

[vynsane]

So, yeah... wow, it's been a long time since I came up with something new in this series... That said, I have now!


"Oni" Class Defense Starfighter by vynsane, on Flickr

Contracted by the Classic Space Agency to design a high-speed defense starfighter intended to patrol large expanses of unexplored regions, Tanuki Corp. decided to go back to the drawing board and develop a new high-output engine module to be paired with the "Kitsune" Class Interceptor fuselage.

With lessons learned during the development of the PLM-T1 "Bakemono", Tanuki Corp. was able to keep development in-house, reducing the overall cost and exerting tighter control on engineering tolerances and aesthetic concerns.

Mating the standard Blaster Cannons mounted to the fuselage with a pair of newly-developed wing-mounted Heavy Pulse Cannons met the firepower requirements set forth by CSA, while the new "Firedemon" engine modules exceeded benchmark requirements for both thrust and handling.

Prototype "Kitsune" interceptors mounting "Firedemon" engine modules in a fastpack configuration are currently in the development stage.

LDD Files

• "Oni" Class Defense Starfighter (Classic Space Livery)
• "Oni" Class configuration modules (exploded view)

Surprise! Lightbrick! by vynsane, on Flickr

Lightbrick: It's in there!

Each "Firedemon" engine module for the "Oni" Class Defense Starfighter contains a lightbrick in the rear, activated by pressing back on the 1x2 cheese graters.

This is something I've wanted to do since the original "Kitsune" interceptor, but I just didn't have the chops at the time. Apparently, now I do...

[unclephn]

I really like this design, and the fact that you added lightbricks makes it that much more awesome! This would be really cool to see in real bricks.

[vynsane]

Thanks, unclephn. Yeah, I hope to make as many of these as possible in real bricks one day...

AAAND here's another one. Basically the 'souped-up muscle car' version of the previous design.


"Ryu" Class Space Superiority Fighter, Space Police Livery by vynsane, on Flickr

With the breakout success of the "Oni" Class Defender, Space Police Command requested a new Space Superiority Fighter to directly counter the threat posed by the Blacktron "Transgressor". Since the agency's investigation into the theft of the original prototype vehicle that would become the Transgressor implicated Tanuki Corp. for gross negligence in the background check practices for office maintenance and janitorial personnel, the company was more than happy to oblige the request - and at only a 10% markup on R&D and materials costs.

The resultant starfighter paired the same "Firedemon" engine modules from the "Oni" Defender with an extended fuselage via a newly-developed wing module. The enhanced power output provided by the fuselage extender module coupled with the already impressive "Firedemon" power consumption/output ratio provided a 50% increase in top-speed and 75% increase in acceleration.

The new wing module, separating the engines from the fuselage, also afforded the opportunity to develop a new high-power energy cannon module on either side of the cockpit, increasing the firing accuracy benchmark by 40% compared to the "Oni" Defender.

The next phase of development for this platform is the addition of at least one pair of second-generation StarDrive modules, to not only meet Transgressor attacks at the point of engagement, but to follow them home (and, possibly, arrive before them).

LDD Files

• "Ryu" Class Strike Fighter (color-coded modules)
• "Ryu" Class Space Superiority Fighter (Space Police Livery)

[vynsane]

"Ryu/Tokkan" Class Pursuit Special, Space Police Livery by vynsane, on Flickr

"Ryu/Tokkan" Class Pursuit Special, Space Police Livery

Phase II of the development of the "Ryu" Class Space Superiority Fighter was the introduction of a variant including FTL capabilities using the previously-developed (and, subsequently stolen) StarDrive module.

Tanuki Corp. was behind the 8-ball, developing new prototype StarDrive modules from schematics and raw data alone, since the original physical prototype was commandeered by Blacktron agents.

After a short development and shake-down period, the newly-christened "Gen 2 StarDrive" modules were unveiled. Lessons learned in the development of the first version led to breakthroughs in energy conservation leading to a 50% gain in FTL speed. Coupled with the extra power output generated by the extended fuselage on the "Ryu" Class SSF, this meant for an over-all 75% increase in top-speed.

Other than the addition of these four Gen-2 StarDrive modules, the configuration remains the same as the "Ryu" Class. The new configuration, dubbed the "Ryu/Tokkan" Class Pursuit Special has already had success in defeating it's primary target: The Blacktron "Transgressor".

Since the "Transgressor" relies on StarDrive modules for both conventional and FTL spaceflight, it is no match for the velocity and handling capabilities of the "Ryu/Tokkan's" "Firedemon" engine modules during conventional spaceflight, and the "Transgressor's" first-gen, barely tested, glitch-prone StarDrive modules are not nearly as powerful as the more durable and efficient gen-two StarDrive modules mated to the "Ryu/Tokkan".

SOP for the Pursuit Specials is to arrive at the scene of any "Transgressor" engagement through the use of FTL flight. Once there, they can out-maneuver the attackers during the primary engagement until such time as the "Transgressor" activates its StarDrive. Once the "Transgressor" has jumped, the "Ryu/Tokkan" will plot out the trajectory and projected endpoint of the jump, activate its own StarDrive, and beat the "Transgressor" to its final destination, where it can re-engage and disable it. In the short time it has been in service, this tactic has led to the "Ryu/Tokkan" brining no less than twelve "Transgressors" and their pilots to justice.

LDD Files

• "Ryu/Tokkan" Class Pursuit Special, Space Police Livery

"Seiryu" Class Superfighter, Special Edition by vynsane, on Flickr

"Seiryu" Class Superfighter, Special Edition

Tanuki Corp. introduces its fastest-ever (conventional propulsion) production starfighter, the "Seiryu" Class Superfighter. Featuring four "firedemon" engine modules mated to the longest fuselage extender/power generator module available, benchmark testing reveals 400% thrust output compared to the base model "Oni" Class Defender that first introduced this engine.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, Tanuki Corp. has produced a scant 100 of these "Special Edition" fighters featuring the unique blue and green color scheme inspired by its namesake (Seiryu being the Japanese word for Azure, or Blue-green, Dragon).

Production models will be available in the standard array of colors, and can be painted to specification for a nominal fee dependent on quantity ordered.

LDD Files

• "Seiryu" Class Superfighter, Special Edition (Blue/Green color scheme)
• "Seiryu" Class Superfighter (Color-coded modules)

[vynsane]

"Raijin" Class modular light interceptor by vynsane, on Flickr

While the "Kitsune" Class light interceptor filled a vital role in many fleets and performed admirably, it became apparent that it had reached the end of it's production lifecycle after the "Oni" and "Ryu" classes gained prominence.

Building on the performance abilities of the "Firedemon" engine modules both of those models share while looking for ways to reduce maintenance costs, Tanuki Corp. decided that a single-engine fighter would fill the gap left by the retirement of the "Kitsune". This also afforded them the ability to reduce the weight and size of the craft, greatly improving power/weight ratio.

Benchmark testing places the "Raijin" on par with the twin-engined "Oni" for speed and beats all other records for maneuverability. The over-all ship profile is reduced by 35% when compared to the "Kitsune", which greatly helps in evading enemy fire.

LDD Files

• "Raijin" Class light interceptor (Color-coded modules)
• "Raijin" Class light interceptor (Painted)

[vynsane]

"Raijin" Class Mk.II Light Interceptor by vynsane, on Flickr

While the speed and small profile of the "Raijin" Class Light Interceptor was above anything Tanuki Corp. had developed previously, the need for greater firepower options prompted a revision of the Light Interceptor configuration. Utilizing the same fuselage frame as the Mk.I while taking certain design cues from the "Mamushi" Class, the "Raijin" Mk.II paired a new set of wing/stabilizer modules featuring multiple weapon system hardpoints and a set of new enhanced nose-mounted blaster cannons.

In addition to the centrally-located enhanced blaster cannons, the depicted configuration is kitted out with four heavy energy cannons, two per side, connected via a forward-facing hardpoint mount.

LDD Files

• "Raijin" Class Mk.II - "painted" version (modules are blocked out as groups)
• "Raijin" Class Mk.II - color-coded modules

[legogod]

I have liked all of the designs presented-nice work Vynsane.

I would like to see some of the modularity swap outs though. I know you have cool names and I've read the backgrounds you've created but to dumb it down for myself: I'd love to see the RED wings on the PURPLE ships.

The fighters would be upon them in moments. The first battle had left the ground strewn with half working battle ships and they needed an army if they wished to survive...
"That Kitsune wing looks undamaged! Secure it to the vessel!"
"But this is a Blacktron Transgressor StarDrive! It will never work Captain."
"You will obey my command cadet or you'll be seeing stars UP CLOSE without a suit!"
"Sir yes SIR!"
The pressure doors release the engine into space and with a quick barrel roll the cadet locks onto the Kitsune wing.
"The power capacity is different. I'll have to compensate..."
"Just do it cadet. Leave your thoughts in your head!"

Kind of like the "messin' with minifigs" thread, swapping parts and seeing how they look.

Thanks,
Jared

[vynsane]

Thanks, legogod!

Believe it or not, aside from the very first post, which was a 'false start', every configuration through the "Oni" class shares the exact same fuselage (except for the "Mamushi" class, which has a different tail module), and the couple of configurations that follow (the "Ryu" lineage) only differ by using various fuselage extender modules. The wings from the "Kitsune" configuration would fit into any of the configurations that use the same tail module, since the wings are shaped to conform to that module, as long as other modules don't interfere. The "Transgressor" weapon modules extend too far out to each side for the "Kitsune" wings to connect. Likewise, the engine module on the "Raijin" lineage won't let the wings from the "Kitsune" lineage connect due to clearance issues. The more modules I develop, the more I'm learning to avoid these clearance issues, but older modules won't necessarily be universally compatible.

[SkarFace]

Impressive! I enjoy the sweep of the wings and the overall solid structure.

[vynsane]

Thanks, Skarface!

And, now, for the first time ever... a 'vynsane Modular Starfighter' in REAL BRICKS!


"Raijin" Class Mk.II Light Interceptor, ADU markings - Main view by vynsane, on Flickr

There are some parts that were reworked in comparison to the all-digital version I previously posted. The engine module is pretty extensively reworked and the wings are a little different.

LDD File
- "Raijin" Class Mk.II Light Interceptor, ADU markings

Additional Shots


"Raijin" Class Mk.II Light Interceptor, ADU markings - Side view by vynsane, on Flickr


"Raijin" Class Mk.II Light Interceptor, ADU markings - Top view by vynsane, on Flickr


"Raijin" Class Mk.II Light Interceptor, ADU markings - Play features! by vynsane, on Flickr


"Raijin" Class Mk.II Light Interceptor, ADU markings - Module breakdown by vynsane, on Flickr

[Mantisking]

I really like the color.

[vynsane]

Thanks!

So, is this not getting a lot of attention because everyone thinks it's "just LDD" still or something? Anyone got anything to say other than Mantisking???

[soccerkid6]

Well in general not many people post in Lego Creations...
Your starfighters look great! Especially in real bricks, the modularity is a very nice feature.
Your system got frontpaged on Eurobricks a while ago right?