I don't think what you suggested would do what I want. It's my fault. I wasn't very clear about what I was thinking. Can I try again, please?
First, let's just use existing vehicle sizes. That should simplify it so you don't confuse me.
Let's say I want a component whose size is 2480 KT so it will only fit on a StarBase with a Master Computer III. Together, they add up to the size of the StarBase. Let's just call it a Massive Space Yard and leave it at just one tech level. This component can't build anything or repair anything. It is as useful as the RingWorld's Gravity Plating or Cabling by itself.
I also want a Massive Space Yard Control component which I'll also say I want to be 2480 KT. This component has all the attributes of a shipyard except, of course, that it builds at a rate of 6000 per turn. In addition, this component will not operate unless there are four Massive Space Yard components present in the same sector.
(Ideally, I would like this component to build at 1500,3000,4500 with just 1, 2, or 3 components in the same sector. But to keep it simple for me to understand, let's just say the only way it operates is at 6000 per turn with 4 components in the same sector.)
Hmm... maybe the key difference between what you are suggesting and what I'm thinking of is the stipulation that ALL four are equally sized. Plus, I don't want to make something bigger than a Starbase. Instead, I want 5 equally sized starbases. In my earlier post, I said just 4. But 5 seems to make more sense in terms of a control object similar to the RingWorld generator.
[This message has been edited by raynor (edited 27 February 2001).]