TECHNIC is one of The LEGO Company's main lines based on creating detailed model machines and mechanical toys with specialized beams, axles, gears and connectors and primarily designed for older children and adults. The theme was first introduced as the Expert Builder series in 1977, but was officially renamed as TECHNIC in 1984. TECHNIC is still an active theme, and is one of the longest running themes in LEGO history. While most TECHNIC sets are vehicles that use pieces to mimic real vehicles, such as engine pieces, suspension, pneumatic, and transmission pieces, the TECHNIC parts have been used by various other System themes as well as LEGO Mindstorms.
1978 LEGO Sets
1978 was transformative: the modern minifigure arrived with articulated limbs and standardized proportions, becoming the heart of LEGO play. Three pillars launched in force—Town, Space, and Castle—bringing buses and services to city streets, astronauts and bases to the cosmos, and knights and keeps to medieval scenes.