What are the limitations of the construction component in space engineers

The limitations of the construction component in Space Engineers primarily revolve around resource requirements and the physical constraints imposed by the game’s mechanics. Here are some of the key limitations:

1. Resource Requirements: Construction components are basic building blocks used in almost every structural assembly in Space Engineers. Each component requires specific resources for its production, typically iron ingots, which must be mined, refined, and processed. This can be resource-intensive, especially in survival mode where resource availability and management are crucial25.
2. Inventory Management: The construction component, like other items in the game, takes up inventory space. Managing these components efficiently can be challenging, especially when dealing with large builds or during extensive repairs, where multiple types of components are needed in large quantities. This can lead to frequent trips back and forth to storage areas, which can be time-consuming and inefficient2.
3. Production Time: The time required to produce construction components in an assembler can add to the overall build time, especially for large projects. This aspect requires players to plan and possibly queue up large batches of components well in advance of the actual construction5.
4. Physical Constraints: There are physical limitations to how construction components can be used within the game. For example, certain components cannot pass through smaller conveyor systems, which can affect the design and functionality of ships and stations. This requires careful planning of the internal logistics systems within builds to ensure that all components can be transported where needed10.
5. Game Performance: Large numbers of construction components and other blocks can impact game performance, especially in complex or large-scale builds. The game engine has a limit on the number of physical shapes it can handle before performance issues such as frame rate drops or even crashes may occur1216.
6. Complexity and Redundancy: Some players have expressed concerns about the complexity and perceived redundancy of having multiple similar components, such as different types of plates and tubes, which all serve similar basic functions but require different resources and production processes. This can complicate the building process and inventory management2.

These limitations highlight the challenges players face when using construction components in Space Engineers, impacting everything from resource management to game performance and design flexibility.