These sets are robots in name only. They are static models and Technic models. In theory you could add motors and robotic control using other sets. Read all about these unique sets below. If you know of others then please inform us! mbts@(this site’s domain)
1984 — Robot Command Center
Robot Command Center (set 6951) is a static model, not a programmable robotics kit. It is included here for clarity and fun. Brickipedia explains: “The giant robot consists of a large cockpit section positioned on two large pylons. Each of those immovable legs is equipped with a flexible grapple arm, two storage boxes and searchlights mounted on a hinged fixture. The head section housed two cockpits with steering wheels and computer monitors. Both cockpits were open to the rear and had foldable roofs. At the top was a large (rotating) dish antenna. The rover and the spacecraft could be docked on Technic pins between the legs. The rocket could be mounted at the rear of the structure. The small spacecraft could fold its wings to fit inside its docking port.” (Image: Brickipedia)
1986 — Sonic Robot
Described by Brickipedia: “This was one of the last sets of Classic Space and its release coincided with the introduction of Futuron. It already has the new Futuron colorscheme but still includes minifigures with old uniforms and a visorless helmets. Together with 6780 XT Starship and 6783 Sonar Transmitting Cruiser, this was the first Space set that included a 9V battery box and Light & Sound bricks.”
1987 — Robot
The plainly named “Robot” (set 8852) is a Technic model but not a programmable robotics kit. Like any Technic model, you could creatively convert it into a programmable robot by adding motors from set 9700. Brickipedia explains: “It includes 327 parts that can be built into a tall, yellow robot. The robot has the ability to transform into a two-seater truck.” Technicopedia adds: “Set 8852 was released in 1987 and was the only set available that year. This set is a truck which features rack and pinion steering. When a crank in the rear is turned, the upper chassis rotates upwards and the wheelbase shortens, transforming the vehicle into a robot. This is the only Technic set ever made with this theme and was almost certainly influenced by the popularity of the Hasbro® Transformer series of toys in the same time period. The mechanism itself is very clever, but the robot is not very interesting once transformed. This set features almost no traditional studded construction, a sign of things to come.” (Image: Brickipedia)