In a nutshell: A Mechanism that works similar to a pulley, but pulls AND pushes platforms along all 3 axis and uses "Mechanical Joints" instead of Ropes.
Why it is relevant to BTW: It is simple, useful, expandable, and while it may not fit in with the current "Stone Age" feel to BTW... it may fit in with the later stages.
Pros:
- Adds a new mechanism that should improve game-play flexibility without being overpowered.
- Difficulty to construct should keep it in a relevant position in tech tree.
Cons:
- Making Platforms move Horizontally may be too technically difficult to implement.
- May add too much of a "Steam Punk" feel that could conflict with the current mods direction.
Details:
Take the following image as an example
Spoiler
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This would not replace Pistons as i don't think such a mechanism should be able to move blocks but instead, it should be able to move Platforms the same way as a pulley does with a few exceptions:
- When the "Mechanism" has a redstone signal, it is set to "extend" and when it there is no redstone signal, it is set to "retract".
- It will only be able to extend OR retract when it receives mechanical energy from a connected axle.
- It connects to an Anchor and uses the same platform moving mechanics as per normal (the anchor MUST face the Mechanical arm).
- It can push/pull a platform both Horizontally AND Vertically.
- Same rules the can cause a Rope to break can also cause the Mechanical Joints to break.
Such a device would obviously emphasize Iron use over other materials. Construction of its components should be dependant on other BTW components. If more metalworking based items are coming in BTW, then constructing the finer mechanical components would require working with hardened forms of Iron such as Steel.