In late 2007, a new motor system was released called Power Functions; it was included within LEGO set 8275 Motorized Bulldozer. It comprised a set of motors, two IR receivers, IR remote control and a battery box, thus resulting in a remote-control model.
With these sets it is possible to build or convert manually operated mechanical movement to motorized using electric motors and controlled via switches or IR remote control. Future plans for this set include more parts which will add even more functionality/control possibilities. Lego has already started to design and sell Lego TECHNIC models (sets) which can be easily retrofitted with Power Functions blocks. For example models like the 8294 Excavator, 8295 Telescopic Handler or 7645 MT-61 Crystal Reaper are sold like classic Lego TECHNIC models with manual motorization but are designed with free space for the Power Functions components with factory instructions on how to perform the conversion to an electrically operated model.
| Number | Name | Released |
|---|---|---|
| 8881 | Power Functions Battery Box | 2008 |
| 8882 | Power Functions XL-Motor | 2008 |
| 8883 | Power Functions M-Motor | 2008 |
| 8884 | Power Functions IR Receiver | 2008 |
| 8885 | Power Functions IR Remote Control | 2008 |
| 8886 | Power Functions Extension Wire | 2008 |
| 8869 | Power Functions Control Switch | 2009 |
| 8870 | Power Functions Light | 2009 |
| 8871 | Power Functions Extension Wire 20” | 2009 |
| 8293 | Power Functions Motor Set | 2009 |
| 8878 | Power Functions Rechargeable Battery Box | 2009 |
| 8887 | Power Functions Transformer 10VDC | 2009 |
| 8879 | Power Functions IR Speed Remote Control | 2009 |
| 61100c01 | Windup Motor 2 × 4 × 2⅓ with Orange Release Button (Power Functions) | 2009 |
| Power Functions Large Motor | 2012 | |
| Power Functions Servo Motor | 2012 |
The Power Functions line-up also includes a Linear Actuator currently not sold separately, but already used in many models like the 8294 Excavator.
Read more about this topic: Lego Technic
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