LEGO ModBots

The ModBots are a series of modules that can be assembled into custom, highly-articulated action figures. Using standardized connection points, individual body parts can be freely swapped to create a multitude of unique robotic characters. There are enough modules to allow a display of three ModBots at a time.

This project was designed and built completely with stock Lego parts and contains no additional materials or adhesives. In total, the modules consist of more than 800 pieces that span across multiple Lego building systems. Each ModBot has 40+ points of articulation, including individually moveable fingers and an innovative shoulder/hip assembly that allows for completely universal mobility.

View this project on Flickr

UPDATE 09.04.2014

ModBots was selected as a Staff Pick and featured on the homepage of LEGO Ideas, a program that allows consumers to vote for concepts they would like to see as official LEGO products. If a project gains 10,000 supporters, it passes onto a review stage where they analyze how marketable the idea is.

Support this project on LEGO Ideas

Logo

The prominent ModBots wordmark is based on a condensed form of Univers. I modified it so that like the ModBots themselves, the wordmark is constructed from modular parts. The visual divide between the top and bottom half of the letters suggests a metallic reflectiveness, which ties into the robotic theme. The supporting "Modular Robots" text is set in Avenir.

Modules

Each module is assembled from several individual Lego parts. Using a standardized connection system, modules join together by a "T" joint that clips on one end and pegs in on the other. I revised each module several times until I was satisfied that they were distinct from one another while remaining visually cohesive. At the same time, they had to be structurally sound enough to not break apart during assembly or disassembly.

Bots

Once assembled, the ModBots are a completely customizable trio of stylized robot action figures. Depending on the user's decisions they vary significantly in height and bulk, allowing a high degree of creative play that always leads to a characterful result.