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.
2011 LEGO Sets
2011 introduced Ninjago, which quickly became one of LEGO’s most successful original themes and the foundation of a long-running multimedia franchise. Other launches included Pirates of the Caribbean, coinciding with Disney’s On Stranger Tides, the sci-fi Alien Conquest, and Master Builder Academy, a design-focused building program. LEGO also experimented with digital-physical integration through Life of George, an early augmented reality experience. Collectible Minifigures Series 3–5 strengthened LEGO’s growing collector market, while internal employee-exclusive sets like Moulding Machines became prized rarities. Several themes concluded this year, including Harry Potter, Ben 10, Power Miners, Toy Story, Prince of Persia, Space Police III, and BrickMaster.