Thermal Mechanics

I'd like to propose Thermal Mechanics to both player and grids.

In space there is either an extreme cold or extreme heat.

Cold is simple enough, if in a shadow any and all heat will try and radiate out from the grid via conduction, radiation, and possibly convention. I'd like to see certain stepping points for the grid being cold. Say three steps with various effects down to possibly the block not functioning.

Same with heat. Heat being a build up as well. Based on the amount of heat applied, insulation and any device used to remove heat. As well as instant high levels of temperature changes.

A block for actual heat transfer and possibly a pump (depending on style of heat rejection fluid), a tank for the heat transfer material. I would think the block would have to have one side outside for rejecting heat into space unless it is reused. Or a solar panel style heat transfer device.

Cold would merely be insulation value base on the type of block, with heaters blocks as well that can be attached to the heat transfer block.

For players, same levels with more dangerous effects beyond level 1. Suit provides basic thermal protection.

A small list of blocks and how it would work (I am omitting values as this is a base idea).

Heat Exchanger block. This includes the heat transfer device, pump, and connections to tank. Each exchanger provides a rate of which heat is rejected.

Heat Exchanger fluid tank. Each tank increases amount of heat that can be stored if needed.

Heat Exchanger panel. Add one provides additional heat rejection.

All Blocks would have "coolant" connections just as it does for power for simplicity. But only actual blocks that generate or release heat will be treated as such.

The grid and atmosphere (in ship) will try to reach the same temperature that is the environment it is in, which the exception of a star to close may continue to reach extreme temperatures.

Light armor block has light thermal insulation

Heavy armor block has heavy thermal insulation

Rotating grid will apply heat evenly and reject it as well, but this would require a 6 side setup for applying heat. Applying as a whole could be easier.

A star would provide the most heat, since there is no way to get close to an actual star in space engineers, I propose it is based on how far away the planet is from center of the map in any direction, as to how much heat is gained per 10 or 100km range . A rate of heat per minute/hour however Keen may want to implement it.

Shadows would produce a negative number, that which would draw any heat from the grid.

Propose 3 levels.

1 - production blocks and mechanical blocks will slow or slow to response (gyroscopes, thrusters, etc).

2 - Production blocks, mechanic blocks slow by half require more power to overcome the temperature change. Continuous use at this level will damage the block. Armor blocks become easier to damage

3 - Production and mechanical blocks cease to function. Armor blocks become brittle or more succumbing to plastic deformation.

Heat would also be generated by blocks. Which would apply to the grid and heat transfer system. Heat generated by blocks that is not absorbed fast enough by the heat transfer system will be applied to blocks.

Thank you for reading my idea.

Lee Please feel free to add comments or ideas.