Technic: A System Within a System

I first discussed the idea of a system back in Chapter 1. I described a system as a collection of different bits and pieces, and also the ways in which they connect with each other to become a larger object or series of objects. For the purposes of this book, think of Technic pieces as a subset of the larger LEGO system you’ve already studied. A subset is just a smaller group of something set apart from a larger group by one or more differences.

In the case of Technic, the difference is that these elements are primarily oriented toward creating machines, and the smaller components within them, or structures—not in using the standard brick connections you’re used to. For instance, you could use Technic pieces to help you build a crane (an example of a machine), or you could use them to build a bridge (an example of a structure).