Session #: 1 Title: Computer Assisted Building Theme: LDraw Presenter(s): Stephen Fisher (SEALUG) Time: Firday, Feb. 14, 03 @ 7PM Over 5 years ago, LDraw brought CAD to the LEGO community. Today, the community has evolved from basic tools, to shared instruction portals, rich 3D rendering tools, inventory management, after-market LEGO sales, and powerful LEGO modeling tools. In this presentation, we'll look at how the internet and the PC have revolutionized the LEGO fan community, especially in the areas of building techniques, part management, and dynamic internet services. ******************************************************* Session #: 2 Title: LPub/LSynth Theme: LDraw Presenter(s): Kevin Clauge Time: Firday, Feb. 14, 03 @ 7PM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 3 Title: Insuring you LEGO Collection Theme: Misc Presenter(s): Ahui Herrera (A&M Productions) Time: Firday, Feb. 14, 03 @ 8PM Learn what are the typical insurance policies, how each of them will cover your LEGO collection, and the pros and cons of each. In addition learn of the various methods used to keep track of the value of your LEGO collection in case you need to file a claim. An application called The Inventory Collection will be discussed briefly which is designed to help collectors keep track of their collection’s value. A DEMO version of The Inventory Collection will be provided to all BricksWest Attendees. Retail Version will be available for purchase. ******************************************************* Session #: 4 Title: FIRST LEGO League Theme: Robotics Presenter(s): Time: Firday, Feb. 14, 03 @ 8PM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 5 Title: Photographing LEGO Models Theme: Misc Presenter(s): Adrian Egli & Matt Gerber Time: Firday, Feb. 14, 03 @ 9PM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 6 Title: Robot Competition – BrickHeap War (BUILDING ONLY) Theme: Robotics Presenter(s): David Schilling (SMART) Time: Firday, Feb. 14, 03 @ 9PM Based loosely on Junk Yard Wars, in the Friday session four teams of 3-6 people each will build and program a robot from a heap of Lego for a specific task. Then the robots will compete against each other in the pavillion on Saturday. Teams should attempt to form before the Friday session, but even if you don't have a team, feel free to show up. ******************************************************* Session #: 7 Title: The Making of a Multi-Dimensional Train Layout Theme: Trains Presenter(s): Robert Powell Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 9AM Tired of that flat train layout? We'll show you how to add some height and depth! Everything from Concept and Design to Coordination and Setup will be covered in detail. We'll also show build techniques for tunnels, hills, and cliffs. Displays will include stacked tables, terra forming modules, micro model sections and a 70 brick tall cliff. ******************************************************* Session #: 8 Title: Beginning Robolab Theme: Robotics Presenter(s): Bill Blackmer Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 9AM We will review the setup of Robolab, the documentation available, and basic configuration and look at various tools and programming levels. We assume nothing in this presentation and we will show the basics. This a great presentation for young people (ages 7 to 51) wanting to learn Robolab. Slow and steady. Session #: 8 (BACKUP) Title: LDraw Animation Theme: Animation Presenter(s): Ahui Herrera (A&M Productions) Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 9AM We will discusses how to create LDraw based animations. Presentation will focus on how to create your LDraw models, how to have POV-Ray render the images for your animation automatically, and how to put the images together to create an animation. All the needed files and applications will be provided to the audience. Also covered will be the pros and cons of various compression algorithms for video. ******************************************************* Session #: 9 Title: Detailing in LEGO Theme: Misc Presenter(s): Jeremy Rear (PNLTC) Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 10AM This session is interpretive of case studies, focusing on innovative details in LEGO design and building. Graphic precedence includes LEGO Trains, Architecture, Town Infrastructure, and Military - Inclusive of examples by LEGO designers and builders from around the globe. ******************************************************* Session #: 10 Title: Introduction to LDraw Tools Theme: LDraw Presenter(s): Tim Courtney (LDraw.org) Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 10AM Learn how to create your own 3D LEGO models with the LDraw system of tools. This session will introduce you to the parts library and to the various programs which use it. It will focus on constructing models in MLCAD for documentation and building instruction creation purposes, and will introduce you to the possibilities of high-quality rendering via POV-Ray and MegaPOV. ******************************************************* Session #: 11 Title: Design Study: Trains SNOT & More Theme: Trains Presenter(s): James Mathis Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 10AM An introduction to a fundamental brick and plate dimensional ratio (5:2) will form a foundation to illustrate several SNOT (Studs Not on Top) compatible constructions. These illustrations will focus on train rolling stock applications for windows, undercarriage modules, SNOT-wise stripes,and wheel shrouds, culminating in the anatomy of a locomotive-- from imagination to reality. Examples will range from basic to more complex interwoven SNOT modules. ******************************************************* Session #: 12 Title: LEGO Flash Animation Theme: Animation Presenter(s): Ahui Herrera (A&M Productions) Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 11AM Flash Animation is a quick and easy way of creating 2D animations designed to be shown over the internet. We will show you how to create a simple LEGO based flash animation and post it on your website. You will learn to use the Flash timeline, import images and sound, add text, and special effects. A trail version of Macromedia FLASH and Ulead MediaStudio Pro will be provided to all registered attendees. ******************************************************* Session #: 13 Title: Robot Competition – BrickHeap War (COMPETITION ONLY) Theme: Robotics Presenter(s): David Schilling (SMART) Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 1PM Based loosely on Junk Yard Wars, in the Friday session four teams of 3-6 people each will build and program a robot from a heap of Lego for a specific task. Then the robots will compete against each other in the pavillion on Saturday. Teams should attempt to form before the Friday session, but even if you don't have a team, feel free to show up. ******************************************************* Session #: 14 Title: Introduction to LDraw Tools Theme: LDraw Presenter(s): Tim Courtney (LDraw.org) Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 2PM Learn how to create your own 3D LEGO models with the LDraw system of tools. This session will introduce you to the parts library and to the various programs which use it. It will focus on constructing models in MLCAD for documentation and building instruction creation purposes, and will introduce you to the possibilities of high-quality rendering via POV-Ray and MegaPOV. ******************************************************* Session #: 15 Title: Robotics Competition - R/C Off-Road Racing Competition Theme: Robotics Presenter(s): David Schilling (SMART) Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 3PM Competitors who have brought their modified "8475 RC Race Buggy"s will race on a special 'off-road' course. On each lap the RC buggies must pick up a Lego barbell in one location, and drop it off in another. Three competitors will race at a time, and each race will be five minutes long. ******************************************************* Session #: 16 Title: Robolab Advanced Concepts Theme: Robotics Presenter(s): Bill Blackmer Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 9PM We will review Compute Tools Level 4 and Level 5. We will look at Program Area Level 5. We will review the String manipulation, Array processing, Cluster, structures, analysis and other tools. Basically all the things people say you can not do with Robolab we will show you how. We will view RCX to RCX communications, setting third-party sensors, and other fun things. If we have time we look at the LABview G Code environment and the adventures of the LABview backend. 90 minutes for fast-movers. Session #: 16 (Backup) Title: Thomas The Train Engine Theme: Trains Presenter(s): Russel Clark (BayLTC/BayLUG) Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 9PM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 17 Title: Introduction to LPub Theme: LDraw Presenter(s): Kevin Clauge Time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 03 @ 9PM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 18 Title: Design Study: New Track Geometry Theme: Trains Presenter(s): Ben Fleskes Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 9AM Learn about modifying LEGO 9v train track. With just a few simple alterations, making that perfect train layout just got a whole lot easier. Specific instructions will be provided on modifying an existing switch track into a pure 40-stud radius turnout switch. ******************************************************* Session #: 19 Title: Studs Not On Top Panel Theme: Misc Presenter(s): Mark Benz (BAYLUG), Bill Ward (BAYLUG), Frank Fliz (PNLTC), and Derek Schin Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 9AM Traditionally, most LEGO constructions consist of/use the orientation of the inter-locking cylinders atop LEGO elements in the (standard) positive vertical direction (UP). The Panel will discuss and describe some alternative ways, the reasons to use LEGO elements in non-standard orientations (Studs Not on Top, or SNOT) to achieve, and show examples of, results. This is not a Mecha or Technic-specific how-to presentation. Panelists are expected to "show and tell" about examples where SNOT is used in town, train, and similar-theme LEGO creations/uses. ******************************************************* Session #: 20 Title: Beyond LDraw: The Making of a Train Instruction Book Theme: Trains Presenter(s): Steve Barile (PNLTC) Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 10AM Building instructions are often thought of as a .dat or .mpd file with steps and printing of such files is merely a task left to the reader. In this session we'll explore the considerations for audience, materials, layout design, and publishing. Some CAD/rendering tool techniques will be discussed, however this session is not meant to be a CAD tutorial. No prior CAD tool experience necessary. ******************************************************* Session #: 21 Title: Sculptures Theme: Misc Presenter(s): Adrian Drake, William Ward, & LEGOLAND Sculptor Reps Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 10AM Learn the details of sculpture and mosaic construction. We'll show you how to make curved shapes using LEGO bricks, from circles and spheres to 3-D models of cartoon characters; how to get the biggest model out of your available LEGO bricks; internal structure of sculptures; and mosaic design and construction techniques. In addition, we will have a representative of Legoland's model shop on hand to tell us all about their approach to sculpture design and construction. ******************************************************* Session #: 22 Title: Show & Tell History of LEGO Trains Theme: Trains Presenter(s): Frank Fliz (PNLTC) Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 11AM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 23 Title: LEGO Animations Theme: Animation Presenter(s): Todd Thuma (BrickMedia) Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 11AM Interested in animation? Then join us for the Animation presentation to learn about what you need to get started. We will talk about equipment,lighting, software, and other essentials as well as illustrate some great examples and where to find more. Animation is challenging but fun, let us show you how. ******************************************************* Session #: 24 Title: Robotics Competition - RCX DragRacing Theme: Robotics Presenter(s): David Schilling (SMART) Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 1PM Competitors who have brought drag racing robots will run them against each other. A pair of robots race along a 20 foot long track, and need to stop within 6 inches of the finish line. ******************************************************* Session #: 25 Title: FIRST LEGO League Theme: Robotics Presenter(s): Lynn Crockett (The LEGO Company) Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 2PM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 26 Title: Introduction to LDraw Tools Theme: LDraw Presenter(s): Ahui Herrera (LDraw.org) Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 3PM Learn how to create your own 3D LEGO models with the LDraw system of tools. This session will introduce you to the parts library and to the various programs which use it. It will focus on constructing models in MLCAD for documentation and building instruction creation purposes, and will introduce you to the possibilities of high-quality rendering via POV-Ray and MegaPOV. ******************************************************* Session #: 27 Title: Round Table: Trains Theme: Trains Presenter(s): Steve Barile (PNLTC) Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 9PM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 28 Title: Custom Minifigs Theme: Misc. Presenter(s): Matt Gerber (BrickMedia) Time: Sunday, Feb. 16, 03 @ 9PM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 29 Title: Round Table: Gaming Theme: Gaming Presenter(s): Frank Fliz (PNLTC) Time: MOnday, Feb. 17, 03 @ 9AM What do you think about gaming with LEGO bricks? Do you play BrickWars or Evil Stevie's Pirate Game or any of the other brick games? This is an opportunity for brick gaming enthusiasts to share ideas on what makes a good brick game, logistics of running games, running games at brick cons, running brick games at traditional game cons, and whatever else you want to talk about. ******************************************************* Session #: 30 Title: Round Table: Robotics Theme: Robotics Presenter(s): David Schilling (SMART) Time: MOnday, Feb. 17, 03 @ 9AM We will be discussing various aspects of Lego Mindstorm robotics at this round table. Possible topics range from dealing with the limitations of using Legoand Mindstorms for serious robots, competitions and play to considering ways to get more people involved with the hobby. ******************************************************* Session #: 31 Title: Round Table: Mecha Theme: Mecha Presenter(s): Time: MOnday, Feb. 17, 03 @ 10AM TEXT HERE ******************************************************* Session #: 32 Title: Round Table: LDraw Theme: LDraw Presenter(s): Tim Courtney (Ldraw.org) Time: MOnday, Feb. 17, 03 @ 10AM Come discuss the future of the LDraw community with LDraw.org volunteers. ******************************************************* Session #: 33 Title: Round Table: AFOL Community Theme: Presenter(s): Matt Gerber (BrickMedia) Time: MOnday, Feb. 17, 03 @ 11AM TEXT HERE