Factories
A good way to think about how factories work in the Mainframe is that it's a reverse manufacturing system:
You start with a Blueprint -> Requirements -> Gather & Process -> Build
Ask yourself, "What do I need to make this Blueprint?", then design a factory run by NikNaks to build it!
Overview
Place a target blueprint with a Builder NikNak. When the required resources are met and placed in the Loading Zone, the Builder will build the mesh.
Design the factory layout needed for obtaining the resources for completing your blueprint (i.e. processing machines, conveyor paths, and loading zones)
Bring in the right NikNaks who are well suited to do your tasks! If you have good rapport, they will start working at your factory!
Example: Hovercraft Factory
What happens in your factory:
- Place a Hovercraft Blueprint
- A Task Pool is generated based on the raw materials: mine, process, deliver parts
- NikNak claims tasks from the pool
Resources needed: 20x light alloy plate, 10x crystals, 5x circuit board, 10x rubber
Set up stations for:
- mining drill for aluminum ore
- harvester pad for rubber plants
- Quarry pit for crystals
- junk yard for salvaging circuit boards
You can design:
- paths between stations that are easy to navigate
- systems for traveling faster (think: highways)
- bins for dropping off specific materials
- conveyor belts for faster automatic transportation of goods
Strategic Design Principles
High-level strategies for setting up a good factory.
Flow efficiency
What's the weakest / slowest part of your factory?
If you improve that, then your output will be greater
What resources are available in your base?
Optimize for what's needed for your blueprint!
Efficient NikNak navigation
How to layout your factory so it's easy for NikNaks to get around?
Taking care of your NikNaks
Working at factories wears NikNaks out - they get tired. Make sure you take care of them so they don't collapse forever!
For every NikNak that works at your factory, you should make sure they have a Bed and a House for sleeping at night.