BLOCS building system

Introduction

BLOCS (Build and Lock System) is an interlocking building system originally developed for use in the World Robot Olympiad™ (WRO®) Future Innovators competition. 

Teams that have 3D printing experience can use this system in addition to the technic building system they already own. BLOCS is compatible with interlocking systems such as Lego®, Elecfreaks and all other systems that work within an 8x8mm raster. 
Just like those interlocking building systems, BLOCS works with lift arms, pins, connectors and gears, only three times bigger. Teams can use an existing robotics kit (e.g. the Lego Mindstorms or Spike Prime, or Elecfreaks Future Innovators set) together with a 3D printer and build larger and more impressive robots in less time. 

The Power of BLOCS

BLOCS was designed to easily scale up robot models and come closer to the real-world situation and size. The best way to make use of the power of BLOCS is to start building your robot with the BLOCS elements itself. Finer details, such as mechanisms used to drive your wheels, grabbers or other things can be developed in the second stage and around the BLOCS build.

BLOCS is designed for building strong models but still makes it easy to prototype. Initial assembly is possible with connectors only, due to the press fit and clamping force of the lock system. Once you are satisfied with your model, you can secure all locked connections with a bolt end nut to make a sturdy model.

If you do not (yet) need to build a strong model, there are connectors with pins available as well. With these connectors, building is way faster, but a bit less sturdy.

Please be aware that this is my first big 3D project and I'm not a design professional. I'm quite sure there will be hick-ups in the files. Just let me know, with your input we can improve this system.

Manual

All information about BLOCS can be found in the manual:

• Available parts and how to use them.
• Printing guidelines, material use and colour guide.
• Other hardware needed.
• Development guidelines 
• Example models with part list (future)

For WRO teams:

Please follow all guidelines in the manual.
Not all printer brands are tested, and some slicer programs are not compatible. Prusa slicer, Orca slicer and Creality print are tested and OK. Bambu Studio and Ultimaker Cura are missing settings, please use Orca slicer instead.

Do not be alarmed by the number of available parts in this manual, you do not need all of them. Some parts are almost similar but have a different mounting option. Just read the manual carefully and choose the correct parts to print.

Leave a message if you need a modified part. Or even better: design your own and share as remix.

Please show your robots in the Makes & Comments section on the Printables webpage as inspiration for other WRO teams and show them where to find these files if you meet interested teams at competition events.

BLOCS is a work in progress and will have updates.

For other users:

Please read the manual and share your builds!

While the BLOCS system is compatible with the Lego building system, it is useful as stand-alone system as well. Feel free to develop attachments for your specific hardware and please share a link or make it a remix.

Have fun building!

Changelog:

• 10-08-2025 Initial release
• 13-08-2025 Added frames and double connectors
• 14-08-2025 Added Double 2L connector with pin and Tee connector with pin
• 15-08-2025 Added several base plates
• 16-08-2025 Added panels and base plates. Already V1.2 which fixes some minor issues. All frames from 3x3 to 21x21 are now available. Please be aware that larger size panels and beams do require a larger printer.
  Uploaded V1.1 Beams: added extra slots for Lego connections. Beams from 1L to 31L are now available. Again, larger parts require a larger printer. New parts of the Beam selection are cross beams.

Punch list:

• Example models with part list (manual)

Wish list:

• Track propulsion parts

Please Note:
For simplicity all references in the manual will refer to the Lego® system, but other compatible systems will work in the same way.

I have no links or sponsorship with shops or manufacturers of any products and brands mentioned in this manual.

A big shout out to the beta testers: WRO teams Dutch Delta and Libanon Lyceum Rotterdam and my friends of the ROBOTMAK3R community.