So, you mean these containers here connected with particle relay looking like this ??? Both images are on their Twitter page. theya re supposed to be relays from contaienrs to other Elements (notice how the containers have "plugs" for the relays" ).
In Space Engineers (SE)
, conveyors (basically pipes) are used to connect different containers and functional blocks (e.g. Assemblers and refineries) together. If a construct is properly conveyer end up, a player can access items in any container from any other container. SE also has connectors which allows to different constructs to dock and then all the connected storages can be shared between the two constructs. This is great for loading/unloading.
They can't really be used over large distances since each conveyor block also requires power to keep it running and while on the cheaper end, they still require some resources to build. So while its technically possible to make a cross continental pipe, to keep it running assumes power stations along the way and that it is protected from attack along its entire length. Which is really only feasible in creative mode.
Also in SE power is automatically transferred to all switched on blocks in a single construct and power can even be shared through a dock connection.
In Dual Universe, we know there are cable elements, but we don't know what they do yet. How containers in a single construct are connected is still a question. If actual pipe elements are used, this would make connecting up a huge space station a very interesting endeavor. Also there is the question on how two constructs can dock and load/unload goods. Or whether all of the loading/unloading will have to be done manually.
I realise now that this is a good question to ask JC at the next AMA.
