Key Facts
- ✓ The Lego Smart Brick was awarded 'Best In Show' at CES 2026.
- ✓ Maarten Simons, Lego Group design manager, demonstrated the feature.
- ✓ The 'Lego ruler' is made of standard bricks divided into segments of 10 Lego studs.
- ✓ Each segment of the ruler measures roughly 8cm (3.15 inches).
- ✓ The feature requires two Smart Bricks: one attached to the ruler and one dragged along it.
Quick Summary
The Lego Group has unveiled a new precise distance measurement feature for its Lego Smart Brick at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. This feature was revealed following the device receiving the 'Best In Show' award at the event.
The demonstration was led by Maarten Simons, a design manager at the Lego Group. He showcased a 'Lego ruler' made of standard bricks. The ruler is divided into segments of 10 Lego studs, roughly equivalent to 8cm (3.15 inches). The measurement process involves attaching one Smart Brick to the end of the ruler and dragging a second Smart Brick along its length.
The 'Lego Ruler' Demonstration 🧱
The new feature was demonstrated in the Lego Group's suite at the technology conference. Maarten Simons introduced a tool referred to as the 'Lego ruler'. This tool is constructed using standard Lego bricks, ensuring compatibility with existing building systems.
The ruler is specifically designed with segments of 10 Lego studs. This length translates to approximately 8cm, or 3.15 inches. The demonstration highlighted how this physical ruler serves as a guide for the digital measurement capabilities of the Smart Brick.
The process requires two Smart Bricks to function. One brick is fixed to the starting point of the ruler. The second brick is then physically moved along the ruler's surface. This movement allows the system to calculate the distance traveled with precision.
Implications for Adult Builders 🛠️
The addition of precise distance measurement significantly enhances the utility of the Lego Smart Brick. While the device had already garnered attention for its technological capabilities, this specific feature targets a more advanced demographic.
The company suggests this feature is perhaps the most impressive one for adult builders. Precision is often a critical requirement for complex builds and engineering projects. By integrating measurement tools directly into the building process, the Smart Brick bridges the gap between physical construction and digital accuracy.
This feature was not part of the initial demonstration of the Smart Brick. Its surprise reveal indicates that the Lego Group is continuing to explore the full potential of the device. The ability to measure exact distances could lead to new applications in robotics, architectural modeling, and precise mechanical builds.
Context of the Reveal 🌍
The demonstration took place in Las Vegas during the CES 2026 technology conference. The Lego Smart Brick was a standout product at the show, earning the prestigious 'Best In Show' award.
The specific reveal of the measurement feature occurred during a follow-up visit to the Lego Group's suite. This visit took place after the main awards ceremony. It was during this final glimpse of the technology that the measurement capability was shown.
The feature adds to the growing list of capabilities for the Smart Brick. While the full technical specifications were not detailed in the demonstration, the use of the 'Lego ruler' suggests a reliance on physical guides for digital precision. This hybrid approach offers a tangible method for users to interact with the technology.
Technical Specifications and Methodology
The measurement methodology relies on a simple but effective mechanical and digital interaction. The Lego ruler acts as the physical standard for the measurement.
Key components of the setup include:
- Standard Lego bricks forming the ruler structure
- Segments defined by 10 Lego studs
- Two Lego Smart Bricks (one stationary, one mobile)
- A measurement length of roughly 8cm
The stationary brick establishes the zero point. The mobile brick tracks the movement along the ruler. The system calculates the distance based on the movement relative to the ruler's segments. This allows for the precise distance measurement highlighted by the designers.
Future Potential and Availability
The reveal of this feature suggests the Lego Group is actively refining the Lego Smart Brick before a wider release. The focus on adult builders indicates a strategic market targeting.
While the specific release date for the Smart Brick or this specific feature was not mentioned, the demonstration at CES 2026 confirms that development is well underway. The 'Best In Show' award validates the industry's interest in the product.
The integration of precise measurement tools opens up new possibilities for the Lego ecosystem. It transforms the Smart Brick from a simple programmable component into a sophisticated tool for precision engineering. This development is likely to be welcomed by the community of advanced Lego enthusiasts.
